Nathan Chasing Horse sentenced to life for sexual assault convictions
Nathan Chasing Horse was sentenced to life in prison on April 27, 2026, for sexual assault convictions.
Why it matters: This high-profile sentencing ends a prolonged prosecution involving a prominent figure who abused his authority within Indigenous communities. The case resonates deeply with victims' rights advocates and justice professionals addressing abuse of power and vulnerable populations.
- Chasing Horse was convicted on 13 charges, primarily for sexually assaulting three women, one as young as 14.
- His actions spanned nearly two decades, exploiting his status as a spiritual leader.
- He will be eligible for parole only after serving 37 years of his life sentence.
- Additional charges against him are pending in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada.
Nathan Chasing Horse, best known for his role in "Dances With Wolves," was sentenced to life in prison in Nevada on April 27, 2026, after being convicted on 13 charges related to the sexual assault of Indigenous women and girls. A Nevada jury found that Chasing Horse used his standing as a spiritual leader to target and abuse victims—one of whom was just 14 when the assaults began—over nearly twenty years (AP).
Chasing Horse, who was first arrested in 2023, faces additional legal jeopardy as charges are still pending in British Columbia and Alberta, broadening the investigation beyond the United States (AP). Judge Jessica Peterson, who presided over the case, noted, "You preyed on these women's trusts and their spirituality, and you manipulated them...." Despite a defense motion for a new trial, the verdict stood.
Victims and their families addressed the court during sentencing. Corena Leone-LaCroix, one survivor, told the court, "There is no way to get back the youth, the childhood loss, my first time, my first kiss, the graduation I never got to have." Siera Begaye, another victim, said: "I am choosing to see this moment.... I will rebuild my life, reclaim...."
Defense arguments calling the verdict a "miscarriage of justice" did not alter the outcome. Chasing Horse must serve at least 37 years before parole eligibility (CBS News).
By the numbers:
- 13 — Number of charges Nathan Chasing Horse was convicted on
- 37 — Years to serve before parole eligibility
- 2 — Decades over which the assaults occurred
Yes, but: Specific details on pending Canadian charges and the total number of victims remain unclear.
What's next: Chasing Horse faces pending sexual assault charges in British Columbia and Alberta, signaling more legal actions ahead.