In a dramatic courtroom session on Tuesday, Michael Lewis, the Texas man accused of stalking Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, caused multiple disruptions during his bail hearing. Judge Angela Davis presided over the tense proceedings in Indianapolis, addressing Lewis’ behavior and his bold declaration of “guilty as charged,” which was quickly dismissed as out of order for the hearing.
Court documents reveal that Lewis drove from Texas to Indianapolis specifically to follow Clark, bombarding her with explicit and sexually violent messages on social media. His actions escalated to the point where local authorities intervened, leading to his arrest and subsequent felony stalking charges. If convicted, Lewis faces up to six years in prison and a fine of $10,000.
Prosecutor Ryan Mears commended Clark’s courage in stepping forward, emphasizing the significant bravery required for victims of such cases to speak out. “It takes incredible strength for women to come forward, especially in these circumstances,” Mears said, highlighting Clark’s role in setting an example for others facing similar threats.
Lewis, who reportedly lives in his car, remains in custody with bail set at $50,000. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 31, where he will face pre-trial hearings on the charges.
This case underscores the ongoing challenges of addressing harassment and violence against women in professional sports and beyond. Clark’s resolve in ensuring her safety has brought attention to the importance of taking swift action against such threats, serving as a reminder that no one should live or work in fear of violence.
