A man who sold lethal chemical kits to vulnerable people via an online suicide forum, leading to two deaths, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison.
Predatory online business exposed
Miles Cross, aged 33 and from Wrexham, established a sinister enterprise targeting individuals experiencing mental health crises. He operated on a pro-suicide website, using a pseudonym to advertise his services. Crucially, he posted a QR code that directed people to a method for ordering a deadly chemical directly from him and paying into his bank account.
The court heard he joined the forum in July 2024 and committed the offences on 9 August, 22 August, 26 August, and 13 September of that year. He sold four kits for £100 each, dispatching the chemical through the postal system. Tragically, two of the individuals who purchased the kits took their own lives. One victim was named as 26-year-old Shubhreet Singh from West Yorkshire.
Arrest, denial, and guilty plea
Police raided Cross's address in January 2025, where they found quantities of the chemical and related paraphernalia. Forensic analysis of his seized electronic devices conclusively linked him to the forum, associated social media profiles, and the bank account used for payments.
During police interviews, Cross denied any wrongdoing. He arrogantly told detectives he had not assembled or distributed any kits and claimed no one was at risk from his actions. However, in November 2025, he appeared at court and pleaded guilty to four counts of encouraging or assisting the suicide of another person, contrary to the Suicide Act 1961.
Condemnation and calls for action
Following the sentencing, authorities and campaigners strongly condemned Cross's actions. Detective Superintendent Chris Bell of North Wales Police stated Cross had "exploited his victims in their most desperate moments, profiting off their vulnerability and mental illnesses." The force described him as a "predator" who preyed on people at the lowest point in their lives.
Alison Storey, a Specialist Prosecutor with the CPS, emphasised that Cross's motives were "purely for financial gain," making the process of obtaining the substance easy and accessible online.
Andy Burrows, Chief Executive of the Molly Rose Foundation, highlighted the role of the online forum, linking the substance sold by Cross to at least 133 UK deaths. He called on Ofcom to act immediately against the forum's owners and urged the Prime Minister to commit to a public inquiry into the systemic failings that allowed such harm to continue.
Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Evans detailed the investigation, which began after a referral from Thames Valley Police. By comparing the amount of the chemical Cross had purchased with what remained, police deduced he had distributed four packages. He said working with the National Crime Agency and Ofcom had made the specific US-based forum used by Cross less accessible from the UK.
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.
