Local Pastor and Former Convict, Thaddeus Black, to Receive FBI Leadership Award

Thaddeus Black, an Oklahoma pastor, will be honored by the FBI, the same organization that arrested him 26 years ago. The Director’s Community Leadership Award, to be presented on April 19, recognizes Black's work in guiding youth and fostering a relationship between his community and the FBI. FBI Director Christopher Wray will present the award, with Edward Gray, the agent who arrested Black in 1998, present.

In 1998, Gray led an investigation into a drug operation in Guthrie, Oklahoma. The operation led to the arrest and imprisonment of Black and his associates. Gray was recognized for his work with a Director’s Award.

Today, Black is a pastor at Tulakes Community Church in Bethany, Oklahoma. Gray, who returned to Oklahoma City two years ago, will attend the award ceremony to honor Black, whom he now views as a community partner and friend.

Black's path to becoming a pastor began during his 15-year prison sentence. A conversation with his mother inspired a change in him, leading to his pastoral work. While in prison, Black mentored a young inmate, who encouraged him to stay in touch post-release.

After his release, Black sought a fresh start with the help of the young man's father, Gary Pitcock. Pitcock employed Black at his car lot and invited him to his church, the First Church of the Nazarene in Bethany. This marked the beginning of Black's pastoral journey, culminating in his current role at Tulakes Community Church and his upcoming FBI recognition.

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