POISON in the post

As a new documentary uncovers how young people have died after buying poison from sellers online, we speak to a mum who lost her daughter

- JOHANNA BELL

Kenneth Law was a seemingly ordinary man, living in Canada and working as a chef. He was a university graduate and, according to his CV, he'd previously worked in aerospace. But Law is accused of harbouring a dark secret, one that, it's claimed, would cause multiple deaths. Because since 2021, Law is alleged to have sold 'poison' online to vulnerable people wanting to end their own lives.

This is the focus of a harrowing documentary due to air this month on C4. Poisoned delves into the story of British student Tom Parfett, 22, who took his own life by taking a lethal substance he'd bought online. In his fight for answers, Tom's dad David contacted investigative journalist James Beal, who now believes Tom was one of hundreds of people across the globe who'd used the internet to buy drugs to assist their intended suicide.

James’ investigation led police to Kenneth Law. He says people were allegedly signposted to Laws’ websites by online suicide forums, and the National Crime Agency has reportedly linked him to 97 deaths in Britain alone. Though no charges have been brought here, in Canada, Law now faces 14 first-degree murder charges, as well as 14 counts of aiding and counselling suicide. His lawyer says he intends to plead not guilty.

Meanwhile, suicide forums are still running, and other suppliers are selling lethal concoctions online. We speak to a mum whose daughter is believed to have used Law’s poison to end her life.

'AS A MUM I BLAMED MYSELF'

Louise Nunn, 55, lives in Bognor Regis with her husband Ray, 58.