BackLAW
Dances with Wolves star Nathan Chasing Horse jailed for at least 37 years for sexual assault
Former actor Nathan Chasing Horse has been sentenced to at least 37 years in prison for sexually assaulting Indigenous women and girls. He was convicted on 13 of 21 charges after jurors heard from three accusers, including a victim who began abuse at age 14.
Why It Matters
The case highlights abuse of spiritual authority within Indigenous communities and the legal accountability for sexual violence against Indigenous women and girls.
Timeline
2 Events
Sentencing and judge's remarks
April 28, 2026
Chasing Horse was sentenced to at least 37 years in prison. Judge Jessica Peterson said he preyed on women's spirituality and manipulated them for his own personal gratification. He will be eligible for parole after serving 37 years and denies the allegations.
Conviction on 13 of 21 charges
April 28, 2026
Jurors heard from three women who said they were sexually assaulted by Chasing Horse. He was found guilty of 13 of the 21 charges he faced; one victim began abuse at age 14.