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A jury in Nevada has found Nathan Chasing Horse, known for his role in the film *Dances With Wolves*, guilty of multiple sexual assault charges involving Indigenous women and girls. The verdict, delivered on Friday, marks a significant moment in the ongoing struggle against violence towards Native women, with Chasing Horse facing a minimum of 25 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for March 11, 2026.
A Long-Awaited Verdict
The Las Vegas jury convicted Chasing Horse on 13 out of 21 counts, primarily related to a victim who was just 14 years old when the abuse commenced. While he was acquitted on some charges involving an older victim described as a wife, the jury’s decision reflects a broader societal commitment to addressing the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities.
Chasing Horse, 49, was accused of leveraging his position as a Lakota medicine man to exploit vulnerable women and girls. Prosecutors highlighted the extensive nature of his predatory behaviour, which reportedly lasted for nearly two decades. The case gained traction following his arrest in 2023, culminating in a trial that underscored the importance of giving a voice to survivors of abuse.
Survivors Speak Out
During the three-week trial, jurors heard from three women who testified about their experiences of sexual assault at the hands of Chasing Horse. Some of these women were underage at the time of the incidents, which added a layer of complexity and urgency to the proceedings. Deputy District Attorney Bianca Pucci described Chasing Horse’s actions as part of a “web of abuse” that ensnared numerous victims over the years.
In contrast, defence attorney Craig Mueller expressed confusion regarding the jury’s verdict and indicated plans to seek a new trial. He challenged the credibility of the main accuser, labelling her a “scorned woman” and questioning the absence of eyewitness testimony. However, prosecutors noted that sexual assault cases frequently occur in private settings, making corroborating evidence difficult to obtain.
Community Response and Reflection
As the verdict was announced, Chasing Horse remained silent, while victims and their supporters gathered in the courthouse hallway, expressing their relief and solidarity by wearing yellow ribbons. William Rowles, the chief deputy district attorney for Clark County, commended the bravery of the women who came forward, hoping that the outcome of the trial would provide them with a sense of peace.
The trial’s conclusion comes at a time when authorities are increasingly acknowledging the epidemic of violence faced by Native women, a crisis that has long been overlooked. The case has sparked renewed discussions about the need for systemic changes to protect Indigenous communities and ensure justice for victims.
Why it Matters
This conviction is not merely a legal victory; it represents a step towards healing and justice for Indigenous women who have suffered in silence for far too long. It sheds light on the urgent need to confront the pervasive violence against Native communities and challenge the narratives that have allowed such abuse to persist. The outcome serves as a powerful reminder that accountability is possible, and it underscores the importance of amplifying the voices of survivors in the ongoing fight for justice and equality.
