TORONTO — A Toronto-area resident originally facing murder accusations for allegedly distributing deadly chemicals through online sales will instead admit guilt to charges of assisting suicide, according to his legal representative who spoke with the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. on Friday.
Defense attorney Matthew Gourlay informed CBC News that Canadian prosecutors have agreed to drop all 14 murder accusations against Kenneth Law in exchange for the guilty plea.
The case is set to appear before a Newmarket, Ontario court Monday afternoon.
Neither Gourlay’s law firm nor Ontario’s Attorney General’s office responded to requests for comment.
Authorities say Law operated multiple online platforms to advertise and distribute sodium nitrite, a chemical typically used in meat processing that becomes lethal when consumed.
Investigators believe Law shipped no fewer than 1,200 packages to customers across more than 40 nations worldwide. Law enforcement agencies in the United States, Britain, Italy, Australia and New Zealand have opened their own investigations.
Canadian law prohibits encouraging suicide, though physician-assisted death became legal in 2016 for individuals 18 and older. Adults suffering from serious medical conditions, illnesses or disabilities may request medical assistance in dying, but must seek help through a licensed doctor.
Law remains behind bars following his arrest at his Mississauga, Ontario residence in May 2023.
Under Canada’s Criminal Code, assisting suicide carries a potential 14-year prison term. Murder convictions result in automatic life sentences with no possibility of parole for a minimum of 25 years.
