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Nathan Chasing Horse Defense Calls Witnesses as Trial Nears End
Neurologist, family member testify in attempt to create doubt about sexual assault allegations.
Jan. 27, 2026 at 9:47pm
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The defense in the trial of actor Nathan Chasing Horse, who is facing sexual assault and kidnapping charges, rested its case after calling three witnesses. The defense called a neurologist who reviewed video evidence and claimed the person appeared to be fully developed, as well as a distant cousin of Chasing Horse who testified she never witnessed any abuse. However, prosecutors challenged the credibility of both witnesses. The defense's final witness was a former helper and security for Chasing Horse who said he never saw anything inappropriate. Closing arguments are set for Wednesday.
Why it matters
The trial of Nathan Chasing Horse has drawn significant attention, as he is a former actor facing serious charges of sexual assault and kidnapping. The defense's strategy of calling witnesses to try to create doubt about the allegations will be closely watched, as the outcome of the trial could have major implications for Chasing Horse.
The details
The defense called a neurologist who reviewed explicit video evidence tied to the charges and claimed the person in the video appeared to be fully developed. However, prosecutors challenged this testimony, pointing out the doctor has no background in pediatrics and has never examined a pre-pubescent child. The defense then called Shya Chasing Horse, a distant cousin of the defendant, who testified she knew one of the alleged victims, Corena Leone La-Croix, and said she never witnessed any abuse. But under cross-examination, Shya acknowledged that she was not always present and could not know what happened when she was not there. The defense's final witness was Nicholas Majia, who testified he worked as a helper and security for Chasing Horse for several years and said he never saw anything inappropriate.
- The defense rested its case on January 28, 2026.
- Closing arguments are set for January 29, 2026 at 1 p.m.
The players
Nathan Chasing Horse
An actor facing sexual assault and kidnapping charges who chose not to testify in his own defense.
Craig Mueller
The defense attorney for Nathan Chasing Horse.
Corena Leone La-Croix
One of the alleged victims in the case against Nathan Chasing Horse.
Melissa
The mother of alleged victim Corena Leone La-Croix.
Shya Chasing Horse
A distant cousin of Nathan Chasing Horse who testified she never witnessed any abuse.
What they’re saying
“Did anything happen with Corena and Nate? Not to my knowledge... not that I'm aware of.”
— Shya Chasing Horse, Distant cousin of Nathan Chasing Horse (ktnv.com)
“When you're not there, you're not able to determine what's happening inside the house, correct? Yes.”
— Shya Chasing Horse, Distant cousin of Nathan Chasing Horse (ktnv.com)
What’s next
Closing arguments in the trial of Nathan Chasing Horse are set for Wednesday, January 29, 2026 at 1 p.m. The judge will then determine the verdict.
The takeaway
The defense's strategy of calling witnesses to try to create doubt about the allegations against Nathan Chasing Horse will be closely watched, as the outcome of this high-profile trial could have significant implications for the former actor.
