Bereaved Surrey dad calls for inquiry into alleged Canadian poison seller in UK

David Parfett and other families are enraged that Kenneth Law will not be extradited to face justice in the UK

Mississauga, Canada. 29th Aug, 2023. A photo of Kenneth Law, an Ontario man accused of selling a deadly substance online, is shown during a press conference, in Mississauga, Ont, on Tuesday, August 29, 2023. Police say Kenneth Law of Mississauga sold sodium nitrite online to individuals at risk of suicide.
Author: Cameron GreenPublished 29th May 2026
Last updated 29th May 2026

The father of a student from Sunbury-on-Thames who died after allegedly ingesting poison bought online is calling for a public inquiry following the decision not to extradite a Canadian man accused of selling lethal substances.

Thomas Parfett, aged 22, died in Sunbury-on-Thames, on 28 October 2021., after engaging with online forums that advocate suicide.

His father believes Thomas ingested poison purchased through these channels.

Kenneth Law, a Canadian national, is accused of selling lethal substances and is currently facing trial in Ontario.

Law allegedly distributed 1,200 packages globally, including 330 sent to the UK.

His actions are allegedly tied to the deaths of over 100 people in Britain.

The UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) have opted not to request Law's extradition for prosecution in the UK, citing complexities of cross-border crime.

Calls for inquiry

David Parfett, Thomas’s father, voiced his frustration with the decision and called for systemic changes, advocating for an inquiry into how these deaths could have occurred.

"If our own country will not put anyone on trial for these deaths, the very least it can do is hold a proper inquiry into how they were allowed to happen," David said.

David highlighted that more than 100 similar cases persist, bringing attention to online platforms that facilitate access to harmful substances and encourage self-harm.

The Molly Rose Foundation's chief executive described the authority's decision as a "bitter blow," aligning with families seeking an inquiry and justice within the UK.

During the inquiry into Thomas's death, Coroner Darren Stewart noted insufficient regulation over the online procurement and importation of toxic substances.

Thomas's case remains unresolved pending the legal outcome for Kenneth Law in Canada.

Help is availabe

If you, or someone you know is suffering with their mental health, or experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can speak to your GP. If someone's life is in danger - call 999 immediately.

You can also find help and advice from these services:

Hub of Hope

Samaritans – Call 116123

Mind - 0300 123 3393

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