Nathan Chasing Horse Convicted and Sentenced to Life for Multiple Sexual Assault Charges

LAS VEGAS — Nathan Chasing Horse, the actor known for his role in 'Dances With Wolves,' was sentenced to life in prison by a Nevada judge on April 27, 2026. The sentencing followed his conviction by a jury in January 2026 on 13 charges, mostly related to sexual assault. He was accused by three Indigenous women and girls, including one who was 14 when the assaults began.

During the sentencing, Chasing Horse wore a navy blue Clark County Detention Center uniform and denied the charges against him. Accusers and their families told the judge they continue to suffer from the trauma caused by Chasing Horse and struggle with their faith after he exploited his position as a spiritual leader.

One accuser, Corena Leone-LaCroix, was 14 years old in 2012 when Chasing Horse allegedly assaulted her.

Chasing Horse talks to his attorney Craig Mueller during his trial on charges of sexually abusing Indigenous women and girls on Jan. 13, 2026, in Las Vegas.

Mueller questioned the main accuser's credibility during the trial and later filed a motion for a new trial, which was denied. Prosecutors described how Chasing Horse used his reputation as a Lakota medicine man to prey on victims over nearly 20 years. Chasing Horse was first arrested and indicted in 2023.

The British Columbia Prosecution Service charged him with sexual assault in February 2023 for an alleged offense in September 2018 near Keremeos, a village about four hours east of Vancouver. The case paused in November 2023 due to Chasing Horse's charges in the United States and resumed the following year.

Damienne Darby, communications counsel for the British Columbia Prosecution Service, stated in an email that British Columbia prosecutors will assess next steps after Chasing Horse's appeals are exhausted. A warrant against Chasing Horse remains outstanding in Alberta, according to the Tsuut'ina Nation Police Service.

The service stated it is in contact with the Alberta Crown Prosecutors Office regarding the warrant.

Chasing Horse was born on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, home to the Sicangu Sioux, one of the seven tribes of the Lakota nation. He appeared as the young Sioux tribe member Smiles a Lot in the Oscar-winning film 'Dances With Wolves,' directed by Kevin Costner.

Victims described participating in his ceremonies or seeking medical help from him, and their mothers said he betrayed their trust and abused sacred traditions.

One victim spoke of facing complications after an ectopic pregnancy resulting from the assault, requiring surgery. She stated, 'I am choosing to see this moment as a fresh start.' Dr. Crystal Lee, CEO and founder of United Natives, which offers services to victims of sexual abuse, said the case highlights the importance of holding high-profile perpetrators accountable and believing victims.

She noted that Chasing Horse used his status as an actor and medicine man to prey on victims, similar to other faith leaders who abuse power.