A member of the Lummi Nation has been indicted for assault by strangulation of an ex-partner, as announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Marc Cagey Oreiro, aged 48, was arraigned in federal court and entered a plea of not guilty. The trial is set to begin on August 25, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Lauren King.
Court records indicate that the incident occurred on May 23, 2025. Oreiro allegedly assaulted the victim in a home located on Lummi Nation tribal land. It is reported that he pushed the victim onto a bed and alternated between strangling her with his hands and forearm, which caused difficulty in breathing for the victim. Additionally, Oreiro reportedly punched the victim multiple times and used his knee to strike her ribs while threatening to kill her.
The situation came to law enforcement's attention when a housemate called the police. Upon arrival, Lummi Police officers arrested Oreiro after he resisted arrest physically. The victim was discovered crying in a closet where she had been ordered to hide by Oreiro. She was subsequently treated for injuries including bruises on her face and ears as well as abrasions on her neck.
Initially charged in tribal court, Oreiro faced further charges following an FBI investigation. A criminal complaint led to a grand jury indictment returned on June 25, 2025.
Assault by strangulation carries potential penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment and fines reaching $250,000.
"The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations," stated authorities emphasizing that "a person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law."
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI Safe Trails Task Force alongside the Lummi Nation Police. Assistant United States Attorney Celia Lee is prosecuting the case and serves as Tribal Liaison for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
