SEATTLE – A member of the Lummi Nation is facing serious federal charges following a brutal assault on his ex-partner. Marc Cagey Oreiro, 48, was arraigned in federal court today, accused of assault by strangulation, a crime that left the victim with visible injuries and fearing for her life.
According to court records, the attack unfolded on May 23, 2025, inside a home located on Lummi Nation tribal land. Oreiro allegedly pinned the victim to the bed, then systematically choked her with both his hands and forearm, cutting off her air supply. The assault didn’t stop there. While she was helpless, Oreiro rained blows upon her – punching her repeatedly in the head, back, stomach, side, and ear. He further escalated the violence by striking her ribs with his knee and kneeling on her chest, all while reportedly threatening to kill her.
The nightmare ended when a housemate dialed 911. Lummi Police officers arrived to find Oreiro actively resisting arrest. But the most harrowing discovery was the victim herself, found sobbing and hidden in the master bedroom closet, where Oreiro had allegedly ordered her to conceal herself from the arriving law enforcement. Medics transported the woman for immediate treatment of her injuries, documenting bruises on her face and ears, along with bruising and abrasions around her neck – clear evidence of a violent struggle.
Oreiro initially faced charges in tribal court. However, following an investigation by the FBI Safe Trails Task Force, federal charges were filed. A grand jury returned an indictment on June 25, 2025, formally charging him with assault by strangulation. Oreiro entered a plea of not guilty. A trial date is set for August 25, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Lauren King.
If convicted, Oreiro faces a hefty penalty: up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. Assistant United States Attorney Celia Lee, who also serves as a Tribal Liaison for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, is prosecuting the case. It’s a grim reminder of the dangers lurking within communities and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
Important Disclaimer: The charges contained in the indictment are allegations at this stage. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. This case is a joint effort between the FBI Safe Trails Task Force and the Lummi Nation Police, demonstrating a collaborative approach to tackling violent crime in Indian Country.
RELATED: Nicholas Young Indicted for Aiding ISIL, Obstruction
Related Federal Cases
- Tayshawn Sellers Sentenced to 12 Years in Brutal Park Attack · Washington
- Milton Hood Guilty of Brutal Attack on Elderly D.C. Couple · Washington
- Ha-Kwa Chiquiti Sentenced for Brutal Domestic Attack · Washington
- Michigan Man Admits to Capitol Cop Attack · Michigan
- DC Man Gets 10 Months for Wyoming Strangulation · Washington
Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
