Texas man charged with stalking WNBA’s Caitlin Clark, behaves erratically in court

Michael Thomas Lewis, 55, of Texas, has been charged with stalking WNBA player Caitlin Clark. He is accused of repeatedly harassing Clark from December 16, 2024, to January 11, 2025.

The Marion County prosecutor’s office filed a Level 5 felony charge, which could lead to a prison sentence of 1 to 6 years. Prosecutors allege Lewis sent sexually violent messages, causing Clark to feel threatened and unsafe.

Court documents reveal that Lewis sent at least 14 disturbing messages. Some of these were explicit, with one claiming he had driven by Clark’s home three times a day. Another stated, “I’m getting tickets, I’m sitting behind the bench.” The FBI traced some of these messages to a hotel near Clark’s team’s home venue, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, and to a library in downtown Indianapolis.

In court, Lewis behaved erratically, reportedly laughing and joking at times. He shouted “guilty as charged” as he sat down in the courtroom. During questioning, Lewis claimed he was on vacation and that the relationship was imaginary. However, prosecutors argue his messages were threatening. Clark, who won the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year award, told authorities she altered her public schedule due to safety concerns.

As part of the legal proceedings, the court issued a no-contact order against Lewis, prohibiting him from contacting Clark by any means, including phone calls, social media, or through third parties. Lewis was also ordered to stay at least 500 feet from both Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Hinkle Fieldhouse, where Clark’s team practices. Authorities are requiring him to provide contact details for GPS monitoring.

Lewis was held on a $50,000 bond, with the condition that he remain in Indiana unless granted permission to leave. If he posts bond, he will be monitored with an ankle bracelet. The court warned that violating the no-contact or stay-away orders could result in his bond being revoked. Lewis faces up to 6 years in prison and a $10,000 fine if convicted.

The prosecutor’s office noted that Lewis traveled from Texas to Indianapolis with the intent of being close to Clark, which led them to seek a higher-than-standard bond. A not guilty plea was entered on Lewis’ behalf, and Judge Angela Davis instructed him to remain silent in jail and only communicate with his attorney.

Lewis’ next court appearance is scheduled for March 31, 2025.