Michael Lewis, a 55-year-old Texas resident, faces serious charges after allegedly sending threatening messages to WNBA player Caitlin Clark. The unsettling messages, sent via X (formerly Twitter), included a particularly alarming one stating, "Been driving around your house 3x a day." Indianapolis police intervened after Clark reported the threats, but Lewis persisted despite their warning.
Clark, who plays for the Indiana Fever, expressed fear for her safety due to Lewis's actions. She revealed that the harassment forced her to alter her public appearances. Authorities apprehended Lewis at a hotel in Indianapolis and detained him on a $50,000 bail. He faces charges of stalking and harassment and has been ordered to cease all contact with Clark.
During his court appearance, Lewis disrupted proceedings, proclaiming "guilty as charged," and dismissed his messages as a "joke" and "imagination, fantasy type thing." However, Judge Angela Davis did not accept this declaration, entering a not guilty plea on his behalf. She firmly reminded Lewis of his rights, stating:
"You have a right to remain silent, and I expect you to exercise that on me." – Judge Angela Davis
Prosecutors argue that Lewis's actions left Clark feeling "terrorized, frightened, intimidated, or threatened," with a reasonable fear of sexual battery. This incident casts a shadow over Clark's celebrated professional career. She was the No. 1 overall pick in the previous year's WNBA draft following an outstanding college tenure at Iowa. Her rookie season saw her named the league's Rookie of the Year and set a new record in assists. Additionally, Clark secured a significant $28 million sponsorship deal with Nike.
Lewis's courtroom behavior drew criticism from Judge Davis:
"It's an imagination, fantasy type thing and it's a joke, and it's nothing to do with threatening." – Michael Lewis
"Been driving around your house 3x a day. But don’t call the law just yet." – Michael Lewis
The judge rebuked him for his conduct during the hearing. The case highlights the serious implications of harassment for public figures and underscores the legal consequences faced by offenders.