A 55-year-old man from Texas, identified as Michael Lewis, has been charged with stalking after allegedly sending a series of threatening and sexually explicit messages to WNBA player Caitlin Clark through social media. Lewis was apprehended on a Sunday at a hotel in Indianapolis, where Clark’s team, the Indiana Fever, is located.
Details of the Allegations
Authorities reported that Lewis sent multiple messages to Clark on the platform X, with content that included threats and sexual propositions. One alarming message reportedly stated: “@CaitlinClark22 I’ve been driving by your house three times a day… but don’t call the police just yet, the public is allowed to drive by Gainbridge, aka Caitlin’s Fieldhouse.”
Messages were exchanged between December 16 and January 2. Clark, the 2024 Women’s National Basketball Association Rookie of the Year, expressed her concerns for her safety, leading her to report the messages to law enforcement before Lewis arrived in Indianapolis.
Legal Consequences
If found guilty, Lewis faces a maximum sentence of six years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Court documents indicate that the messages caused Clark to feel terrorized and intimidated, prompting her to alter her appearance in public due to safety fears.
Response from Authorities
The FBI tracked Lewis down by tracing the IP addresses of the messages to his hotel. During questioning, Lewis claimed that his messages were merely “imagination” and not intended as threats. Marion County prosecutor Ryan Mears emphasized the importance of victims coming forward, stating that it takes courage to report such incidents.
Broader Context
This incident follows a similar case involving another women’s college basketball star, Paige Bueckers, who was also subjected to stalking and harassment. Such cases highlight ongoing issues of safety and the need for protective measures for athletes and public figures.