
A Denton, Texas man has been apprehended in Indianapolis for allegedly stalking WNBA star Caitlin Clark and sending her threatening, sexually explicit messages via social media, according to the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office. Michael Lewis, 55, is accused of traveling to Indianapolis, where Clark, a standout player for the Indiana Fever, resides during the WNBA season.
The prosecutor’s investigation revealed that Lewis had been sending messages from an IP address linked to a local hotel in Indianapolis. Authorities from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) confronted Lewis on January 8 regarding his behavior. During the interaction, Lewis reportedly admitted to believing he shared an “imaginary relationship” with Clark, though the messages continued despite the police intervention.
Ryan Mears, the Marion County Prosecutor, condemned the escalating nature of the harassment, emphasizing its gravity. “This case illustrates how online harassment can quickly evolve into tangible threats of violence, regardless of a victim’s prominence,” he stated. Mears also lauded the bravery of the victim in coming forward, acknowledging the challenges women often face in reporting such incidents.
Mears highlighted the broader implications of the case, stressing the importance of creating safe environments for women. “It takes tremendous courage to report such cases, and by doing so, the victim sets an example for others. Every woman deserves to live and work without fear of sexual violence,” he added.
The swift arrest was made possible through collaboration between the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Pacers Sports & Entertainment, and local law enforcement. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by online harassment and the critical need for vigilance in protecting public figures from escalating threats.