Seattle – A harrowing tale of domestic violence has gripped the Lummi Nation as a 48-year-old member faces federal charges. Marc Cagey Oreiro was arraigned on an indictment charging him with assault by strangulation, a crime that carries severe penalties. According to sources close to the investigation, Oreiro is accused of assaulting his ex-partner in the master bedroom of a tribal land home, using both hands and his forearm in the attack that left the victim struggling for breath.
The victim was so terrorized during the assault that Oreiro forced her into hiding in a closet. Her injuries were severe, with bruises covering her face, ears, neck, and other parts of her body. She was treated by medics at the scene before being taken to a hospital for further care.
After a frantic call from a housemate, Lummi Police officers arrived on the scene to find Oreiro physically resisting arrest. The confrontation escalated as Oreiro fought with law enforcement, but was eventually subdued and taken into custody. He entered a plea of not guilty in federal court today, setting the stage for a trial scheduled for August 25, 2025.
Oreiro had previously faced charges in tribal court before being charged by criminal complaint following an FBI investigation. The grand jury returned its indictment on June 25, 2025, making this a serious case with significant consequences if convicted.
Assault by strangulation is a heinous crime with penalties that can include up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching $250,000. Assistant United States Attorney Celia Lee will be leading the prosecution, serving as a Tribal Liaison for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, ensuring this case receives the attention it deserves.
The FBI Safe Trails Task Force and the Lummi Nation Police are actively investigating the incident. For now, Oreiro stands accused, and justice is on its way to the Lummi Nation.
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Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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