A former Maidstone United footballer has been sentenced to 28 months in prison for importing and supplying nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. Jamar Loza, 31, was arrested twice in 2022 after police found him with canisters of the recreational drug during traffic stops in Norwich.
Norwich Crown Court heard that Loza, who played for the Stones 63 times between 2016 and 2019, was involved in a commercial operation sourcing and supplying nitrous oxide between London and Norfolk. He employed two drivers to assist with deliveries and boasted about making so much money he did not know what to do with it.
Loza, of Lapwing Drive in Costessey, Norfolk, pleaded guilty to the offences. The court was told he had previously been of positive good character, with a character reference from former Norwich City player Darren Eadie describing him as a role model for young players.
Co-defendant Lydia Punchard, 25, of Church Street, Briston, was found guilty of one count of supplying nitrous oxide. She received a six-month prison sentence, suspended for a year, and was ordered to complete 10 days of Rehabilitation Activity Requirement.
