A man who sold lethal chemical kits to vulnerable people on an internet suicide forum has been sentenced to 14 years in prison.
Predatory Business Model Exposed
Miles Cross, 33, from Wrexham, admitted four offences of encouraging or assisting suicide after setting up a business targeting mentally ill individuals online. The court heard he operated on a pro-suicide website, posting a QR code that allowed users to order a dangerous chemical directly from him and pay into his bank account.
Cross sold four kits for £100 each, sending the substance through the post. Tragically, two people – including 26-year-old Shubhreet Singh from West Yorkshire – took their own lives using the materials he supplied. The identities of two other victims are protected by a court order.
A Survivor's Harrowing Testimony
In a powerful anonymous statement, one woman who purchased a kit but did not use it described how Cross exploited her vulnerability. "At the time I made the decision to purchase this substance I felt vulnerable, overwhelmed and struggled silently," she said. "This experience caused me significant emotional pain."
She added: "The fact this was so easy makes me think, had I not come to my senses, I wouldn't be where I am today. Because this person made it so easily available, makes me think they preyed on vulnerable people like me." The woman emphasised that the substance Cross sold "could have ended my life and seriously impacted on my family."
Police Investigation and Sentencing
North Wales Police arrested Cross in a January 2025 raid on his home, where they found quantities of the chemical and other paraphernalia. Analysis of his seized devices linked him directly to the forum, social media profiles, and the bank account used for payments.
The offences took place on 9 August, 22 August, 26 August, and 13 September 2024. During police interviews, Cross denied selling the kits and arrogantly told officers he had not distributed anything. He changed his plea to guilty when he appeared at Mold Crown Court in November 2025.
Sentencing him today, the court heard Cross showed no remorse. Detective Superintendent Chris Bell of North Wales Police stated: "Cross took advantage and exploited his victims in their most desperate moments, profiting off their vulnerability and mental illnesses."
Calls for Action and Support
Following the sentencing, Andy Burrows, Chief Executive of the Molly Rose Foundation, highlighted the role of the online forum. "Miles Cross was able to callously use an online pro-suicide forum to target vulnerable people," he said. The foundation noted the chemical he sold is linked to at least 133 UK deaths.
Burrows called for immediate action from Ofcom and a public inquiry, stating: "The Government and Ofcom have repeatedly missed chances to act and prevent loss of life."
Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Evans of North Wales Police offered a message of hope, urging anyone in distress to seek professional help. "We would encourage them strongly to access the specialist support through organisations like Samaritans and not to go down a line of using online forums where they might come across predators like Cross," he said.
For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
