Nathan Chasing Horse, known for his role in “Dances with Wolves,” has been convicted by a jury in Las Vegas for multiple counts of sexual assault, including serious charges linked to minors. The trial, which concluded on Friday, featured a number of testimonies from alleged victims who claimed that Chasing Horse exploited their spiritual beliefs for his advantage.
The 49-year-old actor faced a total of 21 charges, which included accusations of sexual assault against a minor under 16, first-degree kidnapping of a minor, and producing child pornography. Chasing Horse, who portrayed the character Smiles a Lot in the critically acclaimed 1990 film, allegedly operated a cult called The Circle, which had a following of up to 350 individuals at its peak.
During the proceedings, the jury delivered a split verdict, convicting Chasing Horse on 13 counts, while acquitting him of eight others. Among those found guilty were charges related to the sexual assault of minors, open and gross lewdness, and child pornography.
Key testimony came from Corena Leone-LaCroix, one of the alleged victims who later became Chasing Horse’s wife. She described her initial trust in him, believing he could provide help during her mother’s illness. However, she recounted how he manipulated her into believing she had to have sexual relations with him as a means of saving her mother. Leone-LaCroix expressed her feelings of helplessness and fear, stating that she was not in a position to refuse his advances.
Chasing Horse’s legal team attempted to discredit Leone-LaCroix’s testimony by suggesting it was motivated by financial interests. Leone-LaCroix firmly countered this claim, asserting her credibility and the truth of her experiences.
These revelations have shed light on the darker aspects of Chasing Horse’s life beyond his Hollywood fame and have sparked conversations regarding the safety and protection of vulnerable individuals in spiritual communities. The outcome of this trial not only serves as a pivotal moment for the victims seeking justice but also underscores ongoing issues of exploitation and abuse within similar organizations.
As this story develops, it is expected to continue drawing attention and may lead to further discussions about accountability and protection for those in vulnerable positions within such communities.