A man who callously sold chemical suicide kits to vulnerable people online has been sentenced to 14 years in prison, after footage emerged showing his arrogant refusal to assist police in identifying potential victims.
A Business Built on Exploitation
Miles Cross, aged 33 from Wrexham, North Wales, admitted four offences of encouraging or assisting suicide after setting up an operation that preyed on mentally ill individuals in online forums. The court heard how he posted a QR code on a pro-suicide forum, enabling people to order a lethal chemical directly from him for £100 each and pay via his bank account.
His crimes contributed to the deaths of two people, including 26-year-old Shubhreet Singh from West Yorkshire. The identities of other victims are protected by a court order.
Defiant Refusal to Assist Police
Newly released police interview footage from January 2025 reveals Cross's chilling indifference. Sitting with his arms folded, the shaven-headed man repeatedly denied any knowledge or responsibility.
When officers urgently asked, "Is there anyone at risk from anything you sold?" he simply replied "no". They implored him: "Can you help identify anyone who might need assistance? We want to prevent loss of life." Cross again stated "no".
He falsely claimed he had not sold any substances, assembled any kits, or distributed them, and therefore had no names or addresses. He also denied having anything hazardous in his property during police searches.
The Evidence and Sentencing
Despite his denials, a raid on his Wrexham home uncovered quantities of the chemical and related paraphernalia. Analysis of his seized digital devices linked him definitively to the forum, social media profiles, and the bank account used in the scheme.
He later pleaded guilty to the charges under Section 2(1) of the Suicide Act 1961. At Mold Crown Court, he was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment.
Det Supt Chris Bell of North Wales Police said: "Cross took advantage and exploited his victims in their most desperate moments, profiting off their vulnerability and mental illnesses."
Alison Storey, a Specialist Prosecutor for the CPS, condemned his "purely financial" motives, stating he made the process "easy and accessible" for those in distress.
Calls for Action and Systemic Failure
The case has sparked serious questions about online regulation. Andy Burrows, Chief Executive of the Molly Rose Foundation, highlighted that the substance Cross sold is linked to at least 133 UK deaths.
He accused the forum of "romanticising, instructing and grooming people to take their lives" and criticised systemic failings. "Despite dozens of coroner’s warnings, the Government and Ofcom have repeatedly missed chances to act," he said, calling for immediate fines and criminal sanctions against forum owners and a public inquiry.
Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Evans described the case as "unique" for North Wales Police, noting Cross had no connection to his victims but specifically targeted their suicidal ideation for financial gain. The investigation began after a referral from Thames Valley Police, with the primary objective being to locate buyers before they used the substance.
Working with the National Crime Agency and Ofcom, authorities have since 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.
