TORONTO, CANADA – A Canadian man accused of selling a poisonous chemical to people who died by suicide is now facing multiple murder charges. Kenneth Law, a 57-year-old former chef, has been charged with 14 counts of second-degree murder by the Canadian police, following allegations that he supplied the lethal substance to individuals who later died. Also, British detectives have linked Law to 90 deaths in the UK.
Law’s lawyer, Matthew Gourlay, stated that his client intends to plead not guilty to the charges. These murder charges mark an escalation in Law’s prosecution in Canada, part of a complex investigation involving 11 police agencies in the country’s largest province, Ontario. Police officials believe that there may be more victims related to Law’s actions.
In addition to the murder charges, Law also faces 14 counts of aiding and counseling suicide in connection to the same Ontario deaths, bringing the total charges against him to 28. If found guilty of second-degree murder under Canadian law, he faces imprisonment for life. Law also remains under investigation by police agencies in other parts of Canada and in the UK.
Canadian detectives revealed that Law had operated multiple websites offering equipment and substances to help individuals end their lives. Authorities believe that Law may have sent over 1,200 parcels containing lethal substances to about 40 countries. The victims ranged from 16 to 36 years old, with more than one victim being under the age of 18. Additionally, many of Law’s alleged victims were based in the UK.
The National Crime Agency in London stated that Law had sent packages to 272 people in the UK, with 90 of the recipients later dying. However, it has not been confirmed whether a toxic substance was the direct cause of each death. Families of Law’s victims have expressed concern about other sellers who may have taken his place and are still supplying the poisonous chemical. They also have criticized the UK government for not doing enough to stop this type of crime. If you’ve been affected by the issues in this story, help and support is available via the BBC Action Line or by phone at 988 in the US and Canada.