Nathan Chasing Horse Sentenced to 37 Years to Life in Prison After Sexual Assault Convictions

**Las Vegas Jury Convicts Actor Nathan Chasing Horse of Sexual Assault**

A jury in Las Vegas has convicted Nathan Chasing Horse, known for his role in the film *Dances With Wolves*, on multiple charges related to the sexual assault of Indigenous women and girls. The verdict, reached in January, saw Chasing Horse found guilty on 13 out of the 21 charges he faced. His trial, which lasted for 11 days, included testimonies from various victims who detailed the abuse they endured.

At a sentencing hearing, presided over by Judge Jessica Peterson, Chasing Horse, 49, was sentenced to 37 years to life in prison, with the possibility of parole after serving a minimum of 25 years. He has already been credited with approximately 1,184 days in jail since his arrest in 2023, following a police operation at his residence in Las Vegas.

Following the verdict, officials from the Clark County District Attorney’s Office spoke about the gravity of the situation. Chief Deputy District Attorney William Rowles highlighted the long history of victims who had come forward over the years, often feeling unheard. “I hope this verdict gives them some peace,” Rowles remarked, while District Attorney Steve Wolfson emphasised that the ruling serves as a strong message against exploitation and abuse, regardless of a perpetrator’s public standing or claims of spiritual authority.

Prosecutors contended that Chasing Horse exploited his position as a self-identified spiritual leader, often referred to as a “Medicine Man” or “Holy Person” within Native American communities, to build trust and subsequently assault his victims. The allegations against him spanned years, depicting a troubling pattern of manipulation and abuse.

The specific charges that led to his conviction included ten counts of sexual assault against minors under the age of 16, one count of open or gross lewdness, one count of sexual assault, and one count concerning possession of visual depictions of sexual conduct involving a child.

In a statement reflecting on the impact of the case, the Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service in Alberta assessed the verdict as an essential step towards justice for survivors. They commended those who had the courage to come forward with their stories.

The investigation that culminated in Chasing Horse’s arrest was initiated following a tip-off in October 2022. As authorities executed a search warrant at his home in Las Vegas, it became evident that there were serious allegations pointing to his exploitative behaviour over numerous years, prompting law enforcement to act decisively.

Despite the jury’s verdict, Chasing Horse continues to maintain his innocence. During the sentencing hearing, he referred to the outcome as a “miscarriage of justice,” underscoring the complexity of the case and the emotional toll it has taken on all involved.

In addition to the convictions in Nevada, Chasing Horse faces further allegations, with active warrants in Canada and other states related to charges of a similar nature. This indicates a broader investigation into his actions, suggesting that the implications of this case may extend well beyond Nevada.

For anyone affected by sexual abuse, resources are available for support. The Crisis Text Line can be reached by texting “STRENGTH” to 741-741, connecting individuals with certified crisis counsellors ready to provide assistance.

This case not only opens discussions about the protection of vulnerable individuals but also shines a light on the long-overdue need for accountability within communities. The conviction of Nathan Chasing Horse may serve as a pivotal moment in the pursuit of justice for victims of sexual violence.