Key facts
- British survivor Elisabeth Belien told a Canadian court that Kenneth Law exploited her despair by selling her toxic chemicals.
- Law sold approximately 1,200 packages of toxic substances to recipients met in online suicide forums in 40 countries.
- Law has admitted to 14 counts of aiding suicides in Canada.
- Nearly 80 deaths in the UK have been linked to Law.
- Law will not face charges in the UK or over British deaths as part of a plea deal with Canadian authorities.
- Statements from families of British victims are being read during Law's sentencing hearing.
A British woman, Elisabeth Belien, confronted Canadian poison seller Kenneth Law in an Ontario court on Wednesday, describing how he exploited her despair by selling her toxic chemicals when she was 23. Belien, who has since recovered after receiving an antidote, told the court she suffered from survivor's guilt after learning of other deaths linked to Law.
Law, a former chef, has admitted to 14 counts of aiding suicides in Canada after meeting individuals in online suicide forums. He is also linked to nearly 80 deaths in the UK. However, as part of a plea deal with Canadian authorities, Law will not face charges in the UK or for any British deaths. Statements from the families of British victims are being read during the sentencing hearing.
Belien stated that Law made it easier for her to act on her despair and that she continues to struggle with intrusive thoughts and flashbacks. She expressed shame and guilt for surviving and for enabling Law to continue his business by purchasing from him. She noted that being in court reminded her how easily her parents could have been mourning her.
Authorities report that Law sold approximately 1,200 packages of toxic substances to recipients in 40 countries, with about a quarter sent to the UK. He was arrested in May 2023 following a complex international investigation. Statements from the families of victims, including Henry Tucker, a 14-year-old British boy who died in 2021, and Ashleigh Harris, were also presented. Stephen Mitchell Sr, father of Canadian victim Stephen Mitchell Jr, addressed Law directly in court, stating Law robbed his son of a chance to be well. Sandra Scott, whose daughter Amara died in February 2022, also shared her family's grief.