A man has been jailed for 14 years in a landmark prosecution believed to be the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, after he sold a deadly chemical online to encourage suicide.
Exploiting Vulnerability for Profit
Miles Cross, 33, pleaded guilty to four counts of intentionally doing an act capable of encouraging or assisting suicide. He was sentenced at Mold Crown Court on Wednesday. The court heard that Cross, using an anonymous online suicide forum, posted packages containing an unnamed fatal chemical to four individuals in August and September 2024. He charged £100 per package.
Tragically, two of those people subsequently used the substance to take their own lives. Judge Rhys Rowlands described the case as "rare and extremely serious," noting that Cross's lack of knowledge about his vulnerable victims was a "serious aggravating feature."
A Thorough and Unique Investigation
The prosecution detailed how Cross joined the forum initially to research suicide methods for himself amid personal struggles. However, in July 2024, he posted a message with a picture of the chemicals and a QR code for ordering. North Wales Police, working with Ofcom, closed UK access to the forum and collaborated with the National Crime Agency, the NHS, and Samaritans.
Cross was arrested in a raid in January 2025, where the substance was found. Analysis of his devices linked him to the forum, social media profiles, and the bank account used for payments. Due to reporting restrictions, only one victim was named: 29-year-old Shubreet Singh from Leeds. Police found a foil bag with Cross's return address at her home.
Impact and a Call for Support
Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Evans stated the force hoped the sentencing would "alert vulnerable people to predators." He confirmed the investigation was unique, marking the UK's first prosecution for using an online forum to target vulnerable people in this way.
One of Cross's surviving victims said in a statement they hoped the case would encourage others to seek professional help, adding: "The fact this was so easy makes me think, had I not come to my senses, I wouldn't be where I am today."
Outside court, Det Supt Chris Bell of North Wales police said Cross had "preyed on his victims online and exploited them in their most desperate moments." He urged anyone struggling to seek support, emphasising they do not have to face it alone.
The poisonous substance involved has been linked to at least 133 UK deaths, according to the suicide prevention charity the Molly Rose Foundation.
