Opening Statements Commence in High-Profile Sexual Assault Trial of Former 'Dances With Wolves' Actor
Opening statements have formally begun in the closely watched trial of Nathan Chasing Horse, the former actor best known for his role in the acclaimed film "Dances With Wolves," who stands accused of sexually assaulting Indigenous women and girls. The proceedings, which commenced on Tuesday, mark a significant moment in a case that has reverberated through Native American communities for years.
Prosecution Alleges Exploitation of Spiritual Authority
Prosecutors presented a stark narrative to the jury, alleging that Chasing Horse leveraged his respected reputation as a Lakota medicine man to manipulate and prey upon vulnerable Indigenous women and girls. Clark County Deputy District Attorney Bianca Pucci outlined the charges, which include sexual assault and sexual assault of a minor, totalling 21 counts to which Chasing Horse has pleaded not guilty.
The case represents the culmination of a protracted effort to bring Chasing Horse to justice, following his initial arrest and indictment back in 2023. His trial unfolds against a backdrop of increased attention from authorities on the epidemic of violence targeting Native women across North America.
Detailed Allegations from the Prosecution
Prosecutors detailed specific allegations involving two victims. One victim was reportedly 14 years old at the time of the alleged assaults. Pucci told the court that Chasing Horse, then 36, manipulated the girl by claiming that "the spirits wanted her to give up her virginity to save her mother," who had been diagnosed with cancer. Following this, he allegedly sexually assaulted her and threatened that if she disclosed the abuse, her mother would die.
The prosecution described how the victim, who had known Chasing Horse since she was six years old and served as a pipe girl in Lakota ceremonies, was symbolically adopted by him and viewed him as a grandfather figure. Pucci alleged that Chasing Horse took her on road trips to various ceremonies, repeatedly assaulting her in hotel rooms. He reportedly had her get tattoos of a spider on her arms and hand as a sinister reminder not to speak out, a symbol mirrored by spider tattoos on his own neck. "She was stuck in his web," Pucci told jurors.
The victim and her mother allegedly moved from California to North Las Vegas to live with Chasing Horse and his multiple wives, where the abuse continued. Despite briefly leaving, she returned at age 16 and later changed her last name to his at 18, convinced of his protective role, especially after her mother entered remission.
Prosecutors also referenced a second victim, who was 19 at the time of the alleged assault and had known Chasing Horse since childhood through ceremonial connections. Pucci stated that this victim saw him as a protector and integral part of Lakota culture.
Defense Portrays a Respected Figure Falsely Accused
Defense attorney Craig Mueller presented a contrasting image, arguing that Chasing Horse is a well-respected individual facing false allegations. Mueller asserted that the prosecution would fail to present concrete evidence, such as DNA or eyewitness testimony, to substantiate the claims.
He compared one accuser to an "angry wife" and highlighted that she lived happily with Chasing Horse for five years, suggesting the allegations were fabricated. Mueller showed the jury family portraits and photos of Chasing Horse at powwows, emphasising his normal family life and community standing. "This isn't some bizarre pedophile at large running around," he stated, countering the prosecution's portrayal of his client as a monster.
Trial Setting and Broader Context
The trial is taking place in a crowded Las Vegas courtroom, where Chasing Horse, wearing a blue tie and black suit with his hair pulled back, sat quietly taking notes, with family members observing from the back row. Born on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, home to the Sicangu Sioux of the Lakota nation, Chasing Horse gained fame after starring in the Oscar-winning "Dances With Wolves" in 1990, later travelling extensively to perform healing ceremonies.
Prosecutors indicated they will present a video and further testimony to support their case as the trial progresses. The Associated Press maintains its policy of not naming individuals who report sexual assault or abuse.
