Texas Man Arrested, Facing Stalker Charges Over WNBA Star Caitlin Clark

A Texas man faces felony stalking charges for targeting WNBA star Caitlin Clark with sexually explicit messages, causing her to fear for her safety.

At a Glance

  • Michael Thomas Lewis, 55, charged with stalking WNBA player Caitlin Clark, 22
  • Lewis allegedly sent threatening and sexually explicit messages on social media
  • Clark reported feeling “very fearful” and altered her public appearances
  • Prosecutors seeking restraining order to keep Lewis away from Indiana Fever events
  • If convicted, Lewis could face up to six years in prison and a $10,000 fine

Stalking Allegations and Arrest

Indianapolis authorities have arrested Michael Thomas Lewis, a 55-year-old Texas man, on felony stalking charges for allegedly targeting WNBA player Caitlin Clark. The 22-year-old Indiana Fever star reported receiving threatening and sexually explicit messages from Lewis on social media, leading to a police investigation and subsequent arrest.

According to court documents, Lewis allegedly stalked Clark from December 16 to January 11, sending messages described by prosecutors as “sexually violent.” The FBI traced these messages to an Indianapolis hotel and a public library, linking them conclusively to Lewis, who was reportedly on vacation in the area.

Impact on Caitlin Clark

The stalking incident has had a significant impact on Clark’s daily life and sense of security. Clark, who was named the Female Athlete of the Year for 2024 by the Associated Press, reported feeling deeply unsettled by the threats.

“[Clark felt] very fearful,” prosecutors stated, adding that she “altered her public appearances and patterns of movement.”

Clark emphasized that she had never met Lewis or responded to his messages, highlighting the unprovoked nature of the harassment. The case underscores the vulnerability of public figures to potential threats and the importance of addressing such issues promptly.

Lewis’s actions have led to serious legal repercussions. If convicted, he could face between one to six years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Prosecutors are actively working to secure a restraining order to prevent Lewis from attending any events featuring the Indiana Fever.

“It takes a lot of courage for women to come forward in these cases, which is why many don’t,” Ryan Mears, the prosecutor handling the case, said.

Despite the severity of the allegations, Lewis maintains his innocence. When questioned by law enforcement, he claimed that his posts were merely fantasy and not intended to be threatening.