LAS VEGAS — In a historic decision, a Nevada jury has convicted actor Nathan Chasing Horse, known for his role in Dances With Wolves, on multiple counts of sexually assaulting Indigenous women and girls. The verdict, delivered in Las Vegas, included 13 guilty counts out of 21 charges against him, primarily related to his abuse of a victim who was just 14 at the time.
Chasing Horse, 49, now faces a minimum prison sentence of 25 years, with sentencing scheduled for March 11. His case has underscored the ongoing epidemic of violence against Native women, with Chasing Horse leveraging his position as a Lakota medicine man to exploit vulnerable individuals.
As the verdict was announced, supporters in the courtroom displayed emotional reactions, some wearing yellow ribbons to stand in solidarity with the victims. I just hope that the people who came forward can find some peace in this, said William Rowles, the Clark County chief deputy district attorney.
Chasing Horse was arrested in 2023 and has faced allegations in other jurisdictions, including Canada. Prosecutors in British Columbia have indicated plans to pursue charges following his sentencing.
During the trial, jurors heard testimony from multiple survivors who recounted years of abuse. Deputy District Attorney Bianca Pucci stated that for nearly two decades, Chasing Horse “spun a web of abuse” that ensnared many women, often under the guise of spiritual authority.
Chasing Horse’s defense, however, expressed disappointment with the verdict, claiming a lack of solid evidence and questioning the motivations of the accusers. Attorney Craig Mueller stated intentions to file for a new trial, citing confusion over the jury's conclusions.
The significant nature of this case reveals a growing awareness and a pivotal moment in combating violence against Indigenous women, affirming that such exploitation will not be tolerated, regardless of the perpetrator's public persona.
