THREE people have now been charged following a lengthy investigation into the death of a man on the Gold Coast.
The 43-year-old was found dead at a home in Hope Island back on April 11 this year, in what was thought to be a non-suspicious death at the time.
Queensland Police have confirmed detectives received correspondence from the Coroner’s Office in July regarding the man’s cause of death, with toxicology results confirming he died from acute pentobarbitone toxicity, a veterinary euthanasia drug listed as a schedule two substance under the Drugs Misuse Regulation 1987.
Detectives from Gold Coast Criminal Investigation Branch and the Homicide Investigation Unit conducting extensive inquiries into the man’s health, care, and treatment in the period leading up to his death, as well as the circumstances of his death.
Police will allege a 53-year-old Main Beach man supplied the victim with a drug for the purpose of ending his life.
He has since been charged with two counts of aiding suicide and one count each of trafficking in dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs and receiving or possessing property obtained from trafficking or supplying.
He is due to reappear at Southport Magistrates Court on 18 September.
An 81-year-old Southport woman has also been charged with one count each of aiding suicide, trafficking dangerous drugs, possession of dangerous drugs and sale of potential harmful things.
An 80-year-old Ashmore man has been charged with one count each of trafficking in dangerous drugs and possessing dangerous drugs.
They are both due to appear in Southport Magistrates Court this month.
Detective Inspector Mark Mooney of Gold Coast CIB said the matter had been an extensive undertaking and they are now looking at whether there are any other deaths that may be linked.
“This has been a large-scale and complex investigation involving detectives from multiple specialist units,” Detective Inspector Mooney said.
“The alleged offender is deliberately targeting vulnerable people, taking advantage of them in their most desperate moments.
“Queensland has very strict legal processes in place for people who are considering end-of-life options. These safeguards exist to ensure proper oversight, consent and protection for those involved.
“Circumventing those processes undermines the protections in place and puts lives at risk.
“So far, detectives are looking into numerous other deaths dating back to 2021 where it is alleged the defendant has had dealings with the deceased person. We believe this number could grow as the investigation continues.
“We urge anyone who may have information relevant to this investigation or who have engaged with a business called End of Life Services to come forward and speak with detectives.”
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline on 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
- Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
- Headspace on 1800 650 890
- ReachOut at au.reachout.com
