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 case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies in New Jersey to address online threats against children and enforce strict penalties for those who attempt such crimes. The sentencing underscores the commitment of authorities to public safety and child protection across the state.
Larry M. Noel, age 49, of Stanhope, was convicted after a jury trial in November 2025 on charges including second-degree luring, second-degree attempted sexual assault, and third-degree attempted endangering the welfare of a child. In addition to his prison sentence handed down by Superior Court Judge Christopher R. Kazlau in Bergen County, Noel received lifetime parole supervision and must register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law.
“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.” Acting Superintendent Jeanne Hengemuhle 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 the strong collaboration among our law enforcement partners, justice has been served, and our communities are safer as a result.”
According to documents presented at trial, Noel contacted an undercover officer posing as a 14-year-old via social media on April 11, 2019. He misrepresented his age as 29 years old during these communications before arranging an in-person meeting at which he was arrested.
The operation was conducted by members of several agencies working together through “Operation Home Alone” under the New Jersey Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force—a network that includes federal, state, county and local agencies conducting investigations into online exploitation cases involving minors.
According to the official website of New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin’s office the agency aims to protect residents’ lives and property while upholding legal standards throughout all counties and municipalities across New Jersey. The office also influences public safety through its authority over law enforcement oversight and regulation, providing services such as crime lab support and victim advocacy statewide.
