Authorities in Indianapolis have arrested a Texas man on felony stalking charges, as he sent dozens of threatening messages to the WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark.
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The stalker has been identified as Michael Lewis, 55, and the documents released by the Marion County Prosecutor's office said that between December 16, 2024 and January 2, 2025, he sent "numerous sexually explicit messages over X."
55-year old Texas man has been charged with felony for stalking Caitlin Clark.
He allegedly sent Clark "numerous threats and sexually charged messages" on X and traveled to Indianapolis before being arrested at a hotel.
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The authorities were able to use his IP address in order to track him down, as Lewis was in Indianapolis in an attempt to see Clark in person.
The Indiana Fever star was fully aware of it all, as she even told authorities that his presence in Indianapolis made her "very concerned for her safety."
"Clark stated that she has been very fearful since learning of the messages and that she has altered her public appearances and patterns of movement due to fear for her safety," the affidavit stated (per ABC News).
Reportedly, Lewis tried to downplay his messages to police saying they weren't meant to be taken seriously, and it was an "imaginary relationship." Furthermore, he claimed he was just in Indianapolis on vacation.
Marion County prosecutor Ryan Mears released a statement:
"No matter how prominent a figure you are, this case shows that online harassment can quickly escalate to actual threats of physical violence. 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 in Indy without the threat of sexual violence."
In view of the consequences Lewis is facing, this level 5 felony stalking charge, also known as "criminal stalking," comes with a prison sentence of one to six years and a fine of up to $10,000.
Related: Indy Sports Columnist Serving Suspension For Awkward Exchange With Caitlin Clark
