OPP Warns of Potentially Lethal Packages Sent to Individuals at Risk of Self-Harm

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OPP Image
OPP Image of packaging

Kenneth Law Charged by Peel Regional Police

ORILLIA – NEWS – The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has issued a warning to communities across Ontario about potentially lethal packages being sent to individuals at risk of self-harm. The packages contain Sodium NITRITE, which is being sold online and distributed by mail. The OPP is urging people to be cautious and vigilant of any unexpected packages in the mail and online transactions of family members.

The OPP has identified the following businesses that may have sent these packages: Imtime Cuisine, AmbuCA, Academic/ACademic, Escape Mode/escMode, and ICemac.

If you or someone you know has received a package from any of these businesses, please contact the OPP or your local police service immediately.

The ongoing investigation has found that the packages may have been sent to more than a dozen communities across the province, as well as other parts of the world. Sodium NITRITE is a white, crystalline substance commonly used as a food additive and found in processed meats. The intentional consumption of excessive amounts of this substance can reduce oxygen levels, impair breathing, and result in death.

Earlier this evening, Peel Regional Police arrested a suspect believed to be responsible for providing this product.

Peel Police Image: Kenneth Law
Peel Police Image: Kenneth Law

Peel Police reported, “On Tuesday, May 2, 2023, Peel Regional Police investigators arrested and charged 57-year-old Kenneth Law of Mississauga, following an investigation involving the online sale and distribution of sodium nitrite”.

The suspect has been charged with the following criminal code offences:

  • Counselling or aiding suicide x 2

On March 31,2023, officers from the 11 Division Criminal Investigations Bureau (CIB) began investigating circumstances of a sudden death, in which it is suspected that the chemical substance was consumed.

It is believed that the suspect distributed and marketed the substance online to target individuals at risk of self-harm. The suspect is currently held in custody awaiting a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton.

If you suspect that you have received a package containing sSodium NITRITE, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca. You may remain anonymous if you wish.

For anyone struggling with mental health and wellness, please call 1-833-456-4566 or visit talksuicide.ca for support.

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