A man from Texas is accused of threatening and sending sexually explicit messages to Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark.
The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office says Michael Lewis was arrested and charged with stalking on Sunday January 12.
Police say Lewis’ message to Clark on social media came from IP addresses in Indianapolis and that he was staying at a hotel in the 100 block of N. Market Street. When visited by police officers with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department on January 8 regarding the messages, Lewis claimed it was “an imaginary relationship.” Despite the encounter with law enforcement the messages continued, police say.
The State has requested that Lewis stay away from Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Hinkle Fieldhouse. The Fever play their home games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Clark is dating Connor McCaffrey who recently joined Butler’s staff as an assistant men’s basketball coach. Butler plays their home games at Hinkle Fieldhouse.
When speaking to the police, Clark said 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.”
Clark grew even more concerned when she found out Lewis was in Indianapolis. She says she doesn’t know Lewis and has not responded to his posts.
“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. We commend Pacers Sports & Entertainment, and the Marion County Sherriff’s Office for the swift and serious action that led to this weekend’s arrest,” said Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears.
