Caitlin Clark Stalker Case: Michael Lewis Thrown Behind Bars After Harassing Fever Star with Sexually Explicit Messages
In a disturbing case that underscores the growing threat of online stalking, 55-year-old Michael Lewis from Denton, Texas, has been sentenced to 2½ years in prison for stalking and harassing WNBA star Caitlin Clark with sexually explicit and threatening messages. The ruling, delivered on July 28, 2025, by a Marion County judge, followed a guilty plea from Lewis on charges of felony stalking and misdemeanor harassment.
Court documents revealed that Lewis sent hundreds of messages to Clark between December 2024 and January 2025. These messages, many of which were sexually violent and threatening, were traced to internet connections at an Indianapolis hotel and the city’s public library. Investigators determined that Lewis had traveled to Indiana, where he stayed in a hotel near Clark’s team, the Indiana Fever. He later told police he was “on vacation” and that he believed he was in a romantic relationship with Clark, despite having never met or spoken to her.
Police first became aware of the threats in January after Clark and her representatives reported the harassment. Even after officers conducted a welfare check on Lewis and warned him to stop, he continued sending disturbing messages. He was arrested shortly after.
As part of the sentence, Lewis is prohibited from contacting Clark or attending any Indiana Fever or Pacers games. He is also banned from accessing the internet during his incarceration. With credit for time served, he is expected to spend approximately 18 more months behind bars.
During the sentencing hearing, Lewis made erratic statements about religion and the apocalypse, prompting the judge to recommend mental health treatment.
Clark, who did not attend the hearing, was reportedly shaken by the ordeal. Prosecutors stated she altered her daily behavior and public appearances out of fear, proving that online threats have very real, dangerous consequences.
