A Texas man, Michael Thomas Lewis, faces felony stalking charges after allegedly harassing WNBA rookie of the year, Caitlin Clark, a player for the Indiana Fever. The 55-year-old was confronted by law enforcement in a Marion County courtroom, where he audibly declared, “guilty as charged.”
According to officials, the harassment began on December 16. During his first court hearing, Lewis reportedly acted erratically, laughing at inappropriate times. He mentioned that he had been off his medication while in jail and living out of his car.
Prosecutors argued for a higher bond due to the fact that Lewis traveled from Texas specifically to be near Clark. A judge set his bond at $50,000 and ordered that if released, he must wear an ankle monitor and stay in Indiana. Lewis was also issued a no-contact order prohibiting him from being within 500 feet of the arenas where the Fever play.
The court has scheduled a pretrial hearing for March 31. Lewis had been sharing concerning posts on social media about Clark and admitted to police he was in town on vacation. He insisted he meant no harm and expressed a desire for a relationship with her.
Caitlin Clark, who led the Iowa Hawkeyes to the national championship game and was subsequently drafted first overall by the Fever, has also been recognized as the Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year for 2024. With her achievements, it’s no wonder she has drawn both admiration and, disturbingly, unwanted attention.
