A Sussex County man was sentenced on March 27 to seven years in state prison for attempting to sexually assault someone he believed was a minor, according to an April 10 announcement from Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and the Division of Criminal Justice.
The sentencing highlights ongoing efforts by New Jersey authorities to address crimes against children and underscores the legal consequences for such offenses. The case reflects statewide priorities in protecting residents’ lives and property, upholding legal standards, and delivering enforcement and legal support according to the official website of the New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin.
Larry M. Noel, 49, of Stanhope, was convicted after a jury trial on November 12, 2025. He received additional penalties including lifetime parole supervision and mandatory registration as a sex offender under Megan’s Law. Superior Court Judge Christopher R. Kazlau handed down the sentence in Bergen County.
“Protecting our children, especially from sexual violence, is a top priority of our office,” said Attorney General Davenport. “The sentence handed down makes clear that attempting to hurt a child will never be tolerated. Our law enforcement partners did an excellent job in stopping the defendant before he could do more harm.” Division of Criminal Justice Director Theresa L. Hilton said: “The sentencing we are announcing shows the serious consequences of this perpetrator’s actions. The internet can be a dangerous place for anyone, let alone children. We will use all the tools we have to find and prosecute those who prey on kids.” Jeanne Hengemuhle, Acting Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police added: “This sentencing sends a clear and unequivocal message: anyone who seeks to harm a child or exploit their innocence will face serious consequences… Thanks to the relentless efforts of our detectives and strong collaboration among our law enforcement partners, justice has been served, and our communities are safer as a result.”
According to court documents presented at trial, Noel contacted an undercover officer posing as a 14-year-old through social media on April 11, 2019. Identifying himself as age 29 rather than his actual age of 49 at that time, Noel arranged an encounter with what he believed was a minor in Bergen County where he was arrested upon arrival.
The operation involved collaboration between multiple agencies including the Division of Criminal Justice; New Jersey State Police; Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office; and other members within Operation Home Alone—part of New Jersey’s Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC). The ICAC Task Force is part of a national network coordinating investigations into online child exploitation involving over 3,500 agencies nationwide according to its official website.
As described by its official website, the New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin extends authority throughout all counties in enforcing laws related not only to criminal prosecution but also public safety regulation across municipalities statewide.
