April 28, (THEWILL) — Former “Dances with Wolves” actor Nathan Chasing Horse has been sentenced to life in prison for sexual assault.
A Nevada judge gave the sentence on Monday, April 27, 2026. He will serve at least 37 years before he can be considered for parole.
He was convicted earlier this year on 13 of 21 charges, including multiple counts of sexual assault involving three women. One of the victims was 14 years old when the abuse began.
Prosecutors said he used his position as a spiritual leader to exploit and manipulate Indigenous women and girls.
During sentencing, victims and their families described lasting trauma and emotional harm caused by his actions.
Chasing Horse maintained his innocence in court and called the ruling a “miscarriage of justice.”
The actor, best known for his role as Smiles a Lot in the 1990 film “Dances with Wolves,” was arrested in 2023.
His case triggered wider investigations in the United States and Canada, where additional charges remain pending.
Authorities say legal proceedings are still ongoing in Canada.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
