Nathan Chasing Horse, the actor known for his role in the film 'Dances With Wolves,' has been sentenced to life in prison for sexually assaulting Indigenous women and girls. A Nevada judge handed down the sentence on Monday, following a jury conviction on 13 charges, primarily related to sexual assault. The charges stemmed from accusations by three women, including one who was just 14 years old when the abuse began. Chasing Horse was acquitted on some charges.
Victims' Statements and Denial
During the sentencing hearing, accusers and their families told Judge Jessica Peterson that they continue to suffer from the trauma caused by Chasing Horse and struggle with their faith after he exploited his position as a spiritual leader. Chasing Horse, wearing his navy blue Clark County Detention Center uniform, stared straight ahead as victims read their statements. He denied the charges against him, calling the proceedings a 'miscarriage of justice.'
Ongoing Legal Proceedings in Canada
The sentencing concludes a multi-year effort to prosecute the former actor, who was first arrested and indicted in 2023. That initial arrest sent shockwaves through Indian Country, prompting law enforcement in other states and Canada to file additional criminal charges, which are still pending. The British Columbia Prosecution Service confirmed that Chasing Horse was charged with sexual assault in February 2023 for an alleged offense in September 2018 near Keremeos, British Columbia. The case was paused in November 2023 due to his U.S. charges but resumed the following year. After all appeals are exhausted, prosecutors will determine next steps. Additionally, a warrant remains outstanding in Alberta, as confirmed by the Tsuut'ina Nation Police Service.
Background and Trial Details
Chasing Horse was born on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, home to the Sicangu Sioux, one of the seven tribes of the Lakota nation. After his appearance as Smiles a Lot in Kevin Costner's Oscar-winning film 'Dances With Wolves,' he traveled across Indian Country to attend powwows and perform healing ceremonies. During his trial, Nevada prosecutors argued that he used his reputation as a Lakota medicine man to prey on Indigenous women and girls. Deputy District Attorney Bianca Pucci told the jury that for nearly 20 years, Chasing Horse 'spun a web of abuse' that ensnared many women.
Victim Testimony
Jurors heard from three women who said Chasing Horse sexually assaulted them. One victim, Corena Leone-LaCroix, testified that she was 14 in 2012 when Chasing Horse told her the spirits wanted her to give up her virginity to save her mother, who had cancer. He then sexually assaulted her and threatened that her mother would die if she told anyone. The assaults continued for years. Chasing Horse denied the allegations, and his attorney questioned the credibility of the main accuser, calling her a 'scorned woman.' A motion for a new trial was denied.
Victims and their family members testified that they struggle with their faith as a result of Chasing Horse's actions. One victim's mother said, 'Even to this day I struggle to regain my faith and spirituality.' Another victim reported ongoing complications from an ectopic pregnancy caused by the assault, requiring surgery. She stated, 'I am choosing to see this moment as a fresh start. I will rebuild my life, reclaim my voice and continue fighting for the future I deserve.'
Impact and Reactions
Dr. Crystal Lee, CEO and founder of United Natives, an organization supporting sexual abuse victims, expressed hope that the victims find peace with the sentencing. She emphasized the importance of holding high-profile perpetrators accountable and believing victims. 'Chasing Horse used his status as an actor and medicine man to prey on victims, similarly to other faith leaders who abuse their power,' Lee said. 'I think it makes us question who we trust and why we trust.'
