Actor Nathan Chasing Horse Found Guilty of Sexual Assault

Tue Feb 03 2026 15:54:19 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a landmark case, 'Dances With Wolves' actor Nathan Chasing Horse has been convicted of sexual assault against Indigenous women and girls, highlighting issues of violence against Native women.

A jury in Las Vegas has convicted Nathan Chasing Horse, known for his role in 'Dances With Wolves', on 13 counts of sexual assault against Indigenous women, some of whom were minors. The verdict comes after years of accusations, with Chasing Horse using his influence as a self-proclaimed medicine man to exploit vulnerable women. He faces a minimum of 25 years in prison, with sentencing set for March 11.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A Nevada jury on Friday convicted Nathan Chasing Horse, the actor known for his role in 'Dances With Wolves', of sexually assaulting Indigenous women and girls, a case that reverberated throughout Indian Country.

The jurors found the 49-year-old guilty on 13 out of 21 counts, mainly regarding assaults on a victim who was only 14 at the time. Chasing Horse, who claims to be a Lakota medicine man, allegedly abused his position of power for nearly two decades.

Chasing Horse is facing a minimum of 25 years in prison, with sentencing coming up on March 11.

In addition to charges in Nevada, he is also facing sexual assault charges in Canada, with British Columbia authorities planning to proceed with their case once U.S. proceedings are concluded.

During the trial, numerous women testified that Chasing Horse used his influence to manipulate and abuse them. Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson stated, Today’s verdict sends a clear message that exploitation and abuse will not be tolerated, regardless of the defendant’s public persona or claims of spiritual authority. The conviction comes amid growing awareness and activism against violence towards Native women.

The main accuser, who was 14 in 2012, described how Chasing Horse convinced her that her sexual submission was necessary to save her mother’s life and continued the abuse for years. Many supporters were present in the courtroom, wearing yellow ribbons to show their solidarity.