Former professional footballer James Hardy has been handed a 28-month prison sentence for running what prosecutors called a 'commercial-scale' laughing gas operation that supplied thousands of canisters across the UK.
The 27-year-old ex-AFC Fylde and Macclesfield midfielder admitted to supplying nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, between September 2022 and October 2023. Manchester Crown Court heard how Hardy's operation distributed more than 10,000 canisters of the substance, which was banned in November 2023 under new legislation.
From Football Pitch to Criminal Enterprise
Hardy, who previously played for several Football League clubs including Macclesfield and AFC Fylde, saw his promising football career cut short by injury. The court was told he turned to drug supply after his sporting career ended.
Prosecutor David Lees revealed that police discovered evidence of Hardy's operation during a search of his home in Whitefield, Greater Manchester. Officers found hundreds of empty nitrous oxide canisters, along with 1,360 full canisters ready for distribution.
The Scale of the Operation
The investigation uncovered that Hardy had been running the operation for over a year, with evidence showing he'd received payments totalling more than £20,000 for the gas canisters. Text messages revealed customers could purchase boxes containing 24 canisters for £60 each.
Judge Nicholas Dean KC told Hardy during sentencing: "You were involved in a commercial-scale operation. You were supplying to numerous people and making a significant financial gain."
Health Warnings and Legal Changes
Nitrous oxide was reclassified as a Class C drug in November 2023, meaning possession now carries a potential prison sentence of up to two years. The substance, often used recreationally for its euphoric effects, can cause serious health issues including vitamin B12 deficiency, nerve damage, and in extreme cases, paralysis.
Hardy's defence lawyer argued that his client had turned to drug supply after his football career ended and he struggled to find alternative employment. However, the judge emphasised that the scale of the operation warranted a significant prison sentence.
The former footballer was also made subject to a proceeds of crime investigation, with authorities seeking to recover any money made from the illegal enterprise.
