“Dances With Wolves” Actor Nathan Chasing Horse Convicted of Sexual Assault

Jury Verdict and Charges

A Nevada jury convicted Nathan Chasing Horse, widely known for his role in Dances With Wolves, of multiple charges of sexual assault involving a minor. The Las Vegas jury found Chasing Horse guilty on 13 of the 21 charges he faced, primarily related to the sexual abuse of a victim who was 14 years old at the time the assaults began. He was acquitted of some charges connected to a different victim who was older and lived with him and his associates. Chasing Horse, 49, pleaded not guilty to all counts.

Sentencing and Future Proceedings

Chasing Horse faces a minimum of 25 years in prison, with sentencing set for March 11, 2026. This verdict concludes a lengthy legal battle that began with his arrest and indictment in 2023, a case that has resonated deeply within Indigenous communities. An early indictment was dismissed by the Nevada Supreme Court in 2024. Chasing Horse also faces sex crime charges in various states, including Canada, where prosecutors are awaiting the conclusion of his U.S. legal proceedings before deciding on next steps.

Reactions and Legal Implications

As the verdict was announced, Chasing Horse remained stoic while supporters of the victims expressed their emotions in the hallway, many wearing yellow ribbons. The main victim opted not to make any statements following the verdict. William Rowles, the Clark County chief deputy district attorney, acknowledged the bravery of the women who testified against Chasing Horse and hoped they could find peace in the outcome.

Chasing Horse’s defense attorney, Craig Mueller, expressed disappointment in the jury’s decision and indicated plans to file a motion for a new trial, voicing doubts about the victims’ credibility. He described the central accuser as a “scorned woman,” while prosecutors underscored that sexual assault cases often lack eyewitness testimony.

Trial Highlights

During the three-week trial, jurors heard testimonies from three women who accused Chasing Horse of sexual assault, some occurring when they were minors. In her closing arguments, Deputy District Attorney Bianca Pucci characterized Chasing Horse as having spent almost two decades “spinning a web of abuse.” start of the most troubling accusations included a claim that Chasing Horse manipulated a young victim into believing she needed to sacrifstart her virginity to help her mother, who was battling cancer.

District Attorney Steve Wolfson emphasized that the verdict sends a strong message that exploitation and abuse, regardless of an individual’s fame or spiritual claims, will not be tolerated.

This case highlights ongoing efforts to combat issues of violence against Native women, a concern that has gained heightened attention in recent years.