A Nevada judge sentenced actor Nathan Chasing Horse to life in prison on Monday following his conviction for sexually assaulting Indigenous women and girls. The sentencing concludes a years-long legal effort stemming from allegations that he exploited his position as a spiritual leader.
Conviction Details and Sentencing
- Charges: A jury previously convicted Chasing Horse on 13 charges, primarily related to the sexual assault of three women.
- Sentence: Judge Jessica Peterson sentenced him to life in prison.
- Parole Eligibility: He will be eligible for parole after serving 37 years.
- Defense Stance: Chasing Horse continued to deny the charges during the proceedings, stating, “This is a miscarriage of justice.”
Impact on Victims and Community
Victims and their families testified about the profound, lasting trauma caused by Chasing Horse. They alleged that he manipulated their trust by leveraging his status as a spiritual guide.
- Emotional Toll: Victims reported struggles with their faith and the loss of formative life experiences, with one accuser stating, “The life that little girl could have lived has been taken from me forever.”
- Betrayal of Trust: Family members testified that Chasing Horse betrayed sacred traditions and abused the trust placed in him.
Allegations and Abuse Tactics
Prosecutors alleged that Chasing Horse preyed on Indigenous women and girls by exploiting their spirituality. During the trial, evidence suggested:
- Manipulation: He allegedly used his reputation as a Lakota medicine man to ensnare victims.
- Coercion: One victim recounted being told by Chasing Horse that she must give up her virginity to save her mother from cancer, followed by sexual assault and threats of silence.
Pending Charges and Legal Status
The sentencing concludes the U.S. prosecution, but other charges remain active:
- Canadian Charges: Separate charges related to an alleged assault in Canada are still pending. The British Columbia Prosecution Service noted that the case paused previously due to his U.S. charges.
- Alberta Warrant: A warrant against Chasing Horse remains outstanding in Alberta, and the Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service is coordinating with the Alberta Crown Prosecutors Office regarding this warrant.
Background on Chasing Horse
Born on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, Chasing Horse gained public recognition for his role in the film Dances With Wolves. Following his film career, he traveled across Indian Country, attending powwows and performing healing ceremonies, which prosecutors cited as the context for the alleged abuses.
