‘Dances With Wolves’ Actor Faces Sentencing Next Wednesday for Sexual Assault

The sentencing of Nathan Chasing Horse, known for his role in “Dances With Wolves,” has been rescheduled to March 18. This decision comes after the actor was convicted for sexually assaulting Indigenous women and girls. The previous hearing was set for Wednesday but was delayed by Judge Jessica Peterson.

Criminal Charges and Conviction

Chasing Horse was found guilty on 13 out of 21 charges. Most of these charges involved his actions against a 14-year-old victim. The judge’s ruling sends ripples through Indian Country, highlighting issues of abuse within Indigenous communities.

Pending Sentencing

The actor faces a minimum prison sentence of 25 years. After the trial, his attorney, Craig Mueller, requested a new trial, citing issues with witness qualifications and expired statutes of limitations. This motion was ultimately denied.

Broader Implications

The case extends beyond Nevada, as law enforcement in other regions are investigating additional charges against Chasing Horse. His arrest in 2023 initiated a larger examination of his actions over the past two decades.

• Outstanding Charges in Canada: Chasing Horse is also charged with sexual assault in British Columbia. This charge relates to an incident that allegedly occurred in September 2018 near Keremeos.
• Additional Cases: The British Columbia Prosecution Service has paused proceedings until U.S. legal matters conclude.

Allegations of Abuse

Prosecutors represented Chasing Horse as a predator who misused his reputation as a Lakota medicine man. He allegedly lured numerous women through his healing ceremonies. The lead prosecutor, Bianca Pucci, described his actions as creating a “web of abuse” lasting nearly 20 years.

Key Testimonies

During the trial, three women testified against Chasing Horse, recounting instances of sexual assault. The main accuser, who was only 14 when the abuse began, claimed he manipulated her under the pretense of spiritual guidance. This claim highlighted a pattern of coercion and manipulation that characterized many of the allegations against him.

As the legal proceedings continue, the impact of Chasing Horse’s actions reverberates across multiple communities. The outcome of the sentencing on March 18 will be closely watched as it represents a critical step in addressing sexual assault within Indigenous populations.