
The man accused of stalking WNBA phenom Caitlin Clark displayed erratic and disturbing behavior during his initial hearing in Indianapolis. Michael Thomas Lewis, 55, bizarrely declared himself “guilty as charged” before later claiming a clerical error in court records made him the wrong suspect. Despite outbursts like demanding the court “throw me the booky,” Judge Angela Davis entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf, citing his repeated interruptions and unstable demeanor.
Lewis, dressed in an orange jumpsuit, faces a Level 5 felony charge for stalking the 22-year-old Indiana Fever star. Prosecutors allege he terrorized Clark with a barrage of explicit and threatening posts on X over the past month. His chilling messages included admissions of driving near Gainbridge Fieldhouse multiple times daily and fantasies about a relationship with Clark. Law enforcement linked Lewis’s posts to an Indianapolis hotel and public library, leading to his January 8 arrest.
Court documents reveal increasingly unsettling behavior from Lewis, who claimed to have relocated from Texas to Indianapolis solely to be closer to Clark. His posts, which began as incoherent musings, escalated into explicit threats, including graphic sexual comments and veiled references to stalking. Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears emphasized the courage it took for Clark to report the harassment, highlighting the risks faced by public figures from online interactions escalating into real-life threats.
In court, Lewis exhibited no remorse, refusing bond and stating he intended to remain in jail. His defense attorney declined to comment. If released, Lewis will be required to stay in Indiana, wear a GPS monitor, and adhere to a stay-away order protecting Clark and the Fever’s home venues. The case underscores the rising dangers of cyber harassment, particularly for high-profile athletes like Clark.
The ordeal also draws parallels to other cases, such as that of Paige Bueckers, a UConn basketball star, whose stalker recently pled guilty after planning to propose with an engagement ring. Both incidents highlight the urgent need for stronger protections against harassment and stalking in sports, as Clark and others continue to navigate the challenges of public life amidst persistent threats.