Gary Black, a former pimp, Ku Klux Klan member, and self-described racist, is serving a life sentence without parole for murder. In his online profile, Black, 73, briefly mentions growing up in rural Missouri and a tragic event that led to his relocation. After a stint with the Marine Corps, he returned to a life on the streets, eventually becoming involved with a prostitute named Tammy Lawson.
In 1998, Lawson alleged that a man named Jason Johnson had accosted her, prompting Black to fatally stab Johnson. Black’s initial death sentence was overturned, and he ultimately accepted an Alford plea, leading to his current incarceration. Despite twice avoiding the death penalty, Black remains unrepentant, stating his desire to kill Johnson and confirming his racist beliefs.
The penpal site through which he shared his story was created by two individuals seeking to positively impact the lives of incarcerated individuals. One founder, Sigrid, formed a close bond with a convicted killer, Alan Wade, whom she moved closer to after corresponding from France. Wade had been sentenced to death for the kidnapping and murders of a retired couple.
Sigrid’s relationship with Wade has caused friction with her family, but she is determined to support him and educate their son about his father’s true character. She firmly believes in second chances and rehabilitation, emphasizing the positive impact penpal correspondence can have on incarcerated individuals.
