A Texas man, Michael Lewis, has been charged with stalking WNBA star Caitlin Clark in Indianapolis after sending threatening and sexually explicit messages to her on social media. The 55-year-old was arrested and charged following an investigation by law enforcement in Marion County.
According to court documents, Lewis sent numerous threatening and sexually explicit messages to the Indiana Fever player on social media platforms. One message stated, "@CaitlinClark22 been driving around your house 3x a day..but don't call the law just yet, the publc is allowed to drive by gainbridge..aka Caitlin's Fieldhouse." Another message mentioned, "I'm getting tickets. I'm sitting behind the bench."
Law enforcement discovered that Lewis had traveled to Indianapolis and was staying at a local hotel. Despite being visited by officers and acknowledging that his actions were based on "an imaginary relationship," Lewis persisted in sending disturbing messages to Clark.
Marion County prosecutor Ryan Mears emphasized the importance of victims coming forward in such cases, stating, "It takes a lot of courage for women to come forward in these cases, which is why many don't. In doing so, the victim is setting an example for all women who deserve to live and work without the threat of sexual violence."
If convicted, Lewis could face one to six years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 for his actions.
This incident involving Caitlin Clark is not an isolated case. Recently, an Oregon man faced charges of breach of peace, electronic stalking, and harassment for his actions towards UConn basketball star Paige Bueckers. The man expressed intentions of marrying Bueckers and was found in possession of an engagement ring and lingerie when arrested near a Connecticut airport.