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A Texas resident, Michael Lewis, 55, was arrested in Indianapolis over the weekend for allegedly stalking Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark. Court documents detail the disturbing nature of Lewis's messages, which included threats and sexually explicit content, culminating in his arrest at a hotel near the Fever's home arena.
Lewis had been sending messages to Clark since December, claiming to have an "imaginary relationship" with her. According to police reports, Lewis messaged Clark, "Been driving around your house 3x a day, but don't call the law just yet." He also indicated plans to attend Fever games, writing, "I'm getting tickets. I'm sitting behind the bench." The escalating nature of these interactions left Clark fearing for her safety, prompting her to alter her public appearances.
Indianapolis police first approached Lewis on January 8 after tracing the unsolicited messages to his IP address. Despite being warned, Lewis continued contacting Clark, sending sexually violent messages. Law enforcement tracked him to a hotel on North Market Street, where he was apprehended on Sunday.
Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears emphasized the gravity of the case. "No matter how prominent a figure you are, this case shows that online harassment can quickly escalate to actual threats of physical violence," Mears stated. He commended Clark for reporting the harassment, noting, "It takes a lot of courage for women to come forward in these cases, which is why many don't."
Clark, a standout guard and the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year, expressed relief following Lewis's arrest. However, the emotional toll has been evident. "I want to thank the authorities and everyone involved in ensuring my safety," Clark said in a brief statement.
The investigation revealed 15 separate messages sent by Lewis from December through mid-January, some of which were described as "explicitly violent" in court documents. Following the arrest, a restraining order was issued, barring Lewis from entering Hinkle Fieldhouse or Gainbridge Fieldhouse, venues connected to Clark and the Fever.
If convicted of felony stalking, Lewis could face up to six years in prison. His court date is set for Tuesday.
