In February 2023, Nathan Chasing Horse, a former actor, and alleged cult leader, faced formal accusation on 19 felony charges, including sexual assault and kidnapping. In response, his defense team sought dismissal, citing constitutional errors by the Eighth Judicial District Court. On November 15, 2023, the Nevada Supreme Court heard oral arguments regarding the potential dismissal of Chasing Horse’s case. Unfortunately for the accused, on December 15, 2023, the Nevada Supreme Court denied his request to dismiss charges related to the sexual assault of several young girls.
Background:
Accused of exploiting his tribal status as a “medicine man” for the alleged sexual assault of multiple women, including minors, Nathan Chasing Horse faced a defense asserting a lack of evidence proving non-consensual encounters and questioning district. The state countered, emphasizing the validity of evidence indicating the victims did not willingly consent, particularly in the case of a 14-year-old. It also argued that Chasing Horse planned the alleged crimes in Nevada, transporting at least one victim out of state.
The Ruling:
In a two-to-one decision, the Nevada Supreme Court rejected Nathan Chasing Horse’s petition to dismiss charges. Justices Patricia Lee and Ron D. Parraguirre signed the order.
Cult Allegations:
Within the cult known as The Circle, Chasing Horse was revered as a tribal healer.
On January 31, law enforcement conducted a raid on the North Las Vegas, Nev. residence where Chasing Horse resided with multiple wives, leading to his apprehension, and booking.
Chasing Horse, recognized for portraying Smiles a Lot in the 1990 Kevin Costner film “Dances with Wolves,” faces a growing online petition demanding his imprisonment and the denial of bail. As of Friday, 1,602 individuals have endorsed the Change.org petition.
The petition asserts, “Nathan Chasing Horse, Lakota Cult Leader, has engaged in abuse and manipulation, warranting imprisonment for the violent nature of his actions and the ongoing threat he poses to the community.”
Conclusion:
The Nevada Supreme Court’s ruling against Nathan Chasing Horse, denying the request to dismiss charges related to sexual assault, sets the stage for his upcoming status check in district court on October 30. This overview provides insights into the court’s decision on this significant legal matter.
