Cyberstalking: A Growing Threat
Introduction
In a disturbing case of cyberstalking, a Texas man has been sentenced to prison for his actions against professional basketball player Caitlin Clark. Michael Lewis, 55, pleaded guilty to stalking and sending "numerous threats and sexually explicit messages" to Clark while she was in Indianapolis. The incident took place at a hotel near the arena where the Indiana Fever play, leaving Clark feeling unsafe and violated.
Main Content
Lewis' actions were not limited to online harassment, as he also traveled from Texas to Indianapolis to continue his stalking in person. This type of behavior is not only a violation of privacy, but also a form of psychological manipulation and control. Stalking is a serious crime that can have lasting effects on the victim, and it's important for perpetrators to be held accountable for their actions.
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. According to the National Center for Victims of Crime, 7.5 million people are stalked in the United States each year. This type of behavior can have a devastating impact on the victims, causing them to fear for their safety and well-being.
Impact
This case serves as a reminder that cyberstalking is a very real and dangerous crime. It's important for individuals to be aware of their online presence and take measures to protect themselves from potential stalkers. It's also crucial for authorities to
About the People Mentioned
Caitlin Clark
Caitlin Elizabeth Clark, born January 22, 2002, in West Des Moines, Iowa, is an American professional basketball player for the Indiana Fever in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA)[1]. She is widely recognized as one of the most accomplished female collegiate basketball players in NCAA history and has played a pivotal role in elevating the visibility and popularity of women’s basketball in the United States[1]. Clark’s basketball journey began at Dowling Catholic High School, where she was named a McDonald’s All-American and ranked among the nation’s top prospects by ESPN[1]. She chose to attend the University of Iowa, where her collegiate career quickly became legendary. As a freshman in 2020–21, Clark led NCAA Division I in scoring, averaging 26.6 points and 7.1 assists per game, and earned Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors[2]. Over her four years with the Hawkeyes, she was twice named National Player of the Year, a unanimous first-team All-American multiple times, and set numerous NCAA records—most notably becoming the all-time leading scorer in Division I women’s basketball history[1]. Clark also set single-season and career records for three-pointers and assists, and became the first women’s player to lead Division I in both points and assists in a single season[1]. Her performances in the NCAA Tournament were especially memorable. Clark led Iowa to back-to-back national championship games, captivating audiences with highlight-reel plays and record-breaking statistics. A 2023 semifinal game against Louisville, in which she recorded 41 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists, stands out as one of the greatest individual performances in tournament history[2]. Though Iowa fell short in both title games, Clark’s play drew unprecedented television ratings and brought new attention to women’s college basketball[2]. Internationally, Clark has represented the United States, winning three gold medals at the youth level, including two at the FIBA Under-19 Women’s World Cup, where she was named MVP in 2021[1]. Her success continued at the professional level: selected first overall by the Indiana Fever in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Clark immediately made an impact, earning Rookie of the Year honors, a spot on the All-WNBA First Team, and setting league records for assists in a season and a game, as well as the rookie scoring record[1]. Currently, Caitlin Clark is not only a standout WNBA player but also a cultural figure whose influence extends beyond the court, helping to drive increased interest and investment in women’s basketball at all levels[1]. Her rapid rise and sustained excellence make her one of the most relevant and impactful athletes in American sports today.
About the Organizations Mentioned
National Center for Victims of Crime
## National Center for Victims of Crime: Overview The **National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC)** is a leading nonprofit organization in the United States dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and communities affected by crime. Its mission is to forge a national commitment to help victims rebuild their lives by providing direct services, advocacy, and educational resources[2]. The organization is particularly focused on victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and other crimes, and it works closely with legal professionals through the National Crime Victims Bar Association to help victims access justice and protective measures[5]. ## History NCVC has its roots in the aftermath of the highly publicized Sunny von Bulow case. In 1986, Sunny von Bulow’s son, Alexander Auersperg, co-founded the Sunny von Bulow Victim Advocacy Center in Fort Worth, Texas, with the goal of creating a national information and referral hub for victim advocates[1]. The organization was renamed the National Victim Center in 1987 and adopted its current name, the National Center for Victims of Crime, in 1998[1]. From the outset, it was envisioned as a national, self-sustaining resource for crime victims and those who serve them[1]. ## Key Achievements NCVC has been instrumental in shaping the national conversation around victims’ rights. It operates a nationwide, toll-free helpline (800-394-2255) staffed by professionals who provide information, referrals, and advocacy to victims, service providers, and professionals[2][5]. The organization has developed critical safety planning tools and resources, including guidance on obtaining protective orders and creating safety plans for victims of domestic violence and stalking[5]. NCVC has also contributed to major legislative and policy advancements. It played a role in the development and dissemination of the *Sourcebook*, a definitive digest of state legislation on crime victims’ rights, which has been widely used by policymakers and advocates[4]. The organization
Indiana Fever
The **Indiana Fever** is a professional women’s basketball team based in Indianapolis, Indiana, competing in the Eastern Conference of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). Founded in 2000 as an expansion team, the Fever is affiliated with the NBA's Indiana Pacers and plays home games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse under the ownership of Herb Simon[1][2]. The team’s early years were challenging, posting a poor 9–23 record in their inaugural season. However, the Fever built a strong foundation by drafting star forward **Tamika Catchings** in 2001, who became the franchise’s cornerstone despite missing her rookie season due to injury[1]. Catchings led the team to its first playoff appearance in 2002 and became one of the greatest players in WNBA history, earning multiple MVP awards and Olympic gold medals during her career with the Fever[2]. From 2005 to 2016, the Fever enjoyed a period of sustained success, making the playoffs 12 consecutive seasons. Under head coach Lin Dunn starting in 2008, they reached the WNBA Finals in 2009 and 2012, winning their first and only WNBA championship in 2012 by defeating the Minnesota Lynx. Catchings was named Finals MVP for her outstanding performance throughout the series[1][2]. Since 2017, the Fever have undergone a rebuilding phase, struggling to maintain their earlier competitiveness. However, recent seasons show signs of resurgence. In 2024, the Fever made the playoffs for the first time since 2016, finishing with a 20-20 record. The 2025 season marks their 26th in the league, led by head coach Stephanie White, with a solid 24-20 record and a 3rd place finish in the Eastern Conference[3][4]. Notably, the Fever set a WNBA record for highest resale ticket prices for a preseason game in 2025, reflecting growing fan interest and commercial success
