A man who sold a deadly chemical online to assist suicide has been jailed for 14 years in what is believed to be the first case of its kind in the UK. Miles Cross, 33, pleaded guilty to four counts of intentionally encouraging or assisting suicide at Mold Crown Court on Wednesday.
The court heard that Cross posted packages containing an unnamed fatal chemical to four people he met on a suicide forum in August and September 2024. Two of the recipients subsequently took their own lives using the substance, for which Cross charged £100.
Judge Rowlands praised the investigation by North Wales Police, which worked with Ofcom to close UK access to the forum. He described Cross's lack of knowledge of the victims' vulnerability as a 'serious aggravating feature'. Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Evans said the force hoped the sentencing would 'alert vulnerable people to predators'.
The prosecution stated that Cross joined the forum to research suicide methods for his own use after 'emotional deterioration' and problems with gambling, alcohol, and sedative use. He posted a message and picture of the chemicals in July 2024, including a QR code for ordering and payment.
Cross was arrested in a raid in January 2025. Police found the substance at his home and linked him to the forum, social media profiles, and bank account. Only one victim, 29-year-old Shubreet Singh from Leeds, was named due to reporting restrictions. The poisonous substance has been linked to at least 133 UK deaths, according to the Molly Rose Foundation.
One surviving victim said they hoped the case would encourage others to seek professional help. Detective Superintendent Chris Bell of North Wales Police stated: 'Today's sentence reflects the severity of Cross's offending, as he preyed on his victims online and exploited them in their most desperate moments.'
