The jury trial for Nathan Chasing Horse, the former 'Dances with Wolves' actor accused of sexually abusing Indigenous women and girls, began Tuesday in Las Vegas. Prosecutors allege he used his reputation as a spiritual leader and healer to take advantage of his victims over two decades. Chasing Horse, who was present in the courtroom Tuesday, has pleaded not guilty to 21 charges, including sexual assault, sexual assault with a minor, first degree kidnapping of a minor, and the use of a minor in producing pornography.
The case sent shock waves across Indian Country when he was arrested and indicted in early 2023. After many setbacks and delays, the case finally proceeded to trial after prosecutors added allegations that Chasing Horse filmed himself sexually abusing a girl younger than 14. Best known for portraying the character Smiles A Lot in the 1990 movie 'Dances with Wolves,' Chasing Horse was born on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, home to the Sicangu Sioux.
After his film role, prosecutors allege Chasing Horse proclaimed himself a Lakota medicine man while traveling North America to perform healing ceremonies. He is accused of leading a cult called The Circle, with followers who believed he could communicate with spirits.
One key victim was 14 years old when she sought his help. Chasing Horse reportedly led her to believe that surrendering her virginity would cure her mother’s cancer. The claims against him include recent revelations that he may have recorded instances of abuse. This trial not only addresses these allegations but also opens a discourse on violence within Native communities, reflecting conversations on accountability.")
The case sent shock waves across Indian Country when he was arrested and indicted in early 2023. After many setbacks and delays, the case finally proceeded to trial after prosecutors added allegations that Chasing Horse filmed himself sexually abusing a girl younger than 14. Best known for portraying the character Smiles A Lot in the 1990 movie 'Dances with Wolves,' Chasing Horse was born on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, home to the Sicangu Sioux.
After his film role, prosecutors allege Chasing Horse proclaimed himself a Lakota medicine man while traveling North America to perform healing ceremonies. He is accused of leading a cult called The Circle, with followers who believed he could communicate with spirits.
One key victim was 14 years old when she sought his help. Chasing Horse reportedly led her to believe that surrendering her virginity would cure her mother’s cancer. The claims against him include recent revelations that he may have recorded instances of abuse. This trial not only addresses these allegations but also opens a discourse on violence within Native communities, reflecting conversations on accountability.")
