Indianapolis, IN — A Texas man accused of stalking and threatening Caitlin Clark, a star player for the Indiana Fever, was arrested over the weekend in Indianapolis. Michael Lewis, 55, of Denton, Texas, faces felony stalking charges for allegedly sending explicit and threatening messages to the 22-year-old athlete over social media.
Online Threats Escalate
According to the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, Lewis sent over 15 disturbing messages to Clark via X (formerly Twitter) between December 16 and mid-January. Many of the messages were sexually explicit and included threats of violence.
One message reportedly read:
“Got banned from caitbridge (sic). I’m sorry. But maybe I go to your road games… it’s okay, right?”
Another read:
“@CaitlinClark22 been driving around your house 3x a day… but don’t call the law just yet. The public is allowed to drive by Gainbridge… aka Caitlin’s Fieldhouse.”
Federal investigators tracked the messages to IP addresses connected to a hotel in downtown Indianapolis and the city’s central library, both located near Gainbridge Fieldhouse, where the Fever regularly play.
Confrontation and Continued Harassment
Indianapolis police confronted Lewis at his hotel on January 8, where he admitted to sending the messages. He initially denied their threatening nature, describing them as “imaginary relationship” posts. Despite the police visit, Lewis continued sending messages to Clark.
Prosecutors said the ongoing harassment caused Clark significant fear, leading her to alter her public appearances and daily routines.
Lewis’s Arrest and Legal Consequences
Lewis was arrested on January 12, following a formal investigation. If convicted, he faces up to six years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears emphasized the severity of the case:
“No matter how prominent a figure you are, this case demonstrates how online harassment can escalate to real threats of violence. It takes courage for women to come forward, and Caitlin Clark is setting an example for others who deserve to live and work without fear.”
Safety Measures and Court Proceedings
Authorities have filed an order barring Lewis from entering Gainbridge Fieldhouse or Hinkle Fieldhouse, two key venues associated with the Fever. Prosecutors are also seeking a higher-than-usual bond, citing the severity of the threats and Lewis’s out-of-state residency.
Lewis is scheduled to appear in court on January 16.
Context of Escalating Harassment in Women’s Sports
This incident highlights a growing concern for the safety of female athletes. Similar cases of harassment have recently surfaced, including the arrest of an Oregon man charged with stalking Paige Bueckers, a standout women’s college basketball player.
Athletes and advocates are calling for stronger measures to protect public figures, particularly women, from escalating online harassment and real-world threats.
