Nathan Chasing Horse Faces New Charges In Ongoing Sex Trafficking Case

Nathan Chasing Horse, the former "Dances With Wolves" actor and self-proclaimed spiritual leader, faces additional federal charges in a sweeping sex trafficking case. Prosecutors filed new documents Tuesday alleging he exploited vulnerable women through a cult-like group in Nevada and other states.

The case resurfaced in national headlines this week after federal investigators revealed disturbing new details. Court filings describe how Chasing Horse allegedly used his Hollywood connections and Native American spiritual practices to control victims between 2011 and 2022.

Las Vegas police first arrested Chasing Horse in January 2023 after multiple women came forward. The 46-year-old now faces 18 felony counts including sexual assault, child abuse, and sex trafficking across Nevada, Montana, and South Dakota. If convicted, he could face life in prison.

The case gained renewed attention this month as prosecutors prepare for a key evidentiary hearing. Recent court documents allege Chasing Horse led a "violent sex cult" that recruited young Native American women under the guise of spiritual ceremonies.

Several victims have spoken publicly about their experiences. One woman told the Associated Press last week how Chasing Horse allegedly forced her into sexual acts by claiming they were "purification rituals." Other accusers describe being isolated from families and subjected to physical abuse.

Chasing Horse maintains his innocence through his public defender. His legal team argues the relationships were consensual and part of legitimate spiritual practices. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 15 in Clark County District Court.

The case has sparked broader conversations about exploitation in spiritual communities. Native American advocacy groups have called for stronger protections against fraudulent spiritual leaders. The National Indigenous Women's Resource Center reports increased calls to their helpline since the case became public.

Chasing Horse gained fame playing Smiles a Lot in the 1990 Oscar-winning film. In recent years, he presented himself as a Lakota medicine man, though tribal leaders dispute his credentials. The unfolding case continues to draw national scrutiny as more victims come forward.