From 'Dances with Wolves' to Courtroom: Actor Faces 'Brainwashing' Trial as a 'Medicine Man'

A former actor from the film "Dances with Wolves" is now on trial, accused of using his role as a Native American spiritual healer to commit crimes. Nathan Chasing Horse faces charges including sexual assault, which prosecutors say he committed by exploiting his influence as a "medicine man." The case has drawn attention to the powerful status some healers, or "medicine men," hold within certain Native American communities. Prosecutors argue Chasing Horse used this spiritual authority to control and abuse his followers. One alleged victim, Melissa Leone, testified about her search for cultural connection. After learning of her Lakota heritage in the 1990s, she sought belonging. "I was grabbing a hold of any and all connections that felt good or safe," she told the court. She claims Chasing Horse exploited that vulnerability. Chasing Horse has denied all allegations. His trial continues.