According to CNN, the sentence, handed down on Monday, April 27, by Clark County District Court Judge Jessica Peterson, marks a major turning point in a case that has unfolded over several years. Chasing Horse, 49, will be eligible for parole after serving 37 years. He remained expressionless in court as victims and their families delivered emotional statements detailing the lasting impact of the abuse.
Several accusers described how the trauma continues to shape their lives. Corena Leone-LaCroix, who said she was 14 when the abuse began, spoke directly to the court about what was taken from her. “There is no way to get back the youth, the childhood loss, my first time, my first kiss, the graduation I never got to have,” she said. “The life that little girl could have lived has been taken from me forever.”
Judge Peterson addressed Chasing Horse’s conduct before issuing the sentence, stating, “You preyed on these women’s trusts and their spirituality, and you manipulated them for your own personal gratification.” The courtroom reportedly broke into applause after the hearing concluded.
During the trial, jurors heard testimony from three women, with the jury ultimately convicting him on 13 of 21 charges. Prosecutors said the abuse spanned years and often occurred in private settings, a factor they noted is common in sexual assault cases.
Deputy District Attorney Bianca Pucci previously told jurors that Chasing Horse spent nearly two decades building what she described as a “web of abuse.”
Chasing Horse, who rose to prominence playing Smiles a Lot in the Oscar-winning film, had built a reputation beyond Hollywood as a spiritual figure, attending ceremonies and gatherings across Native communities. Prosecutors argued that he used that standing to gain trust and access to vulnerable individuals.
Chasing Horse has also continued to deny the allegations. Speaking briefly in court, he called the outcome “a miscarriage of justice.” His defense team had attempted to secure a new trial, but that request was denied.
The legal proceedings in Nevada may not be the final chapter. Authorities in Canada, including prosecutors in British Columbia and officials in Alberta, have ongoing cases and warrants connected to similar allegations. Those matters are expected to move forward once the U.S. process, including any appeals, is complete.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE or visit rainn.org for confidential support. To report child abuse or exploitation, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 800-4-A-CHILD.
