Sussex County Man Sentenced to 7 Years for Attempted Child Sexual Assault

Larry M. Noel, 49, will face lifetime parole supervision and must register as a sex offender.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:21pm

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An extreme close-up of a pair of metal handcuffs against a completely black background, the harsh lighting creating dramatic shadows and textures to convey a serious, investigative mood without any words or symbols.A stark visual reminder of the harsh consequences faced by those who seek to exploit the innocence of children.Stanhope Today

A 49-year-old Sussex County man has been sentenced to seven years in state prison for attempting to sexually assault someone he believed was a minor. Larry M. Noel was convicted following a jury trial on charges including second-degree luring, second-degree attempted sexual assault, and third-degree attempted endangering the welfare of a child.

Why it matters

Protecting children from sexual violence is a top priority for law enforcement. This sentencing sends a clear message that attempts to harm or exploit minors will face serious consequences, with the defendant facing a lengthy prison term, lifetime parole supervision, and mandatory sex offender registration.

The details

According to trial evidence, Noel contacted an undercover officer posing as a 14-year-old on a social media app in 2019. He identified himself as a 29-year-old man and arranged to meet the individual in Bergen County, indicating he intended to engage in sexual acts. When Noel arrived at the predetermined meeting location, he was arrested by law enforcement as part of 'Operation Home Alone', a joint effort involving the Division of Criminal Justice, the New Jersey State Police, and the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office.

  • On April 11, 2019, Noel contacted an undercover officer posing as a 14-year-old.
  • On November 12, 2025, Noel was convicted following a jury trial.
  • On March 27, 2026, Noel was sentenced to seven years in state prison.

The players

Larry M. Noel

A 49-year-old man from Stanhope, New Jersey who was convicted of attempting to sexually assault someone he believed was a minor.

Jennifer Davenport

The Attorney General of New Jersey, who stated that protecting children from sexual violence is a top priority.

Theresa L. Hilton

The Director of the Division of Criminal Justice, who said the sentencing shows the serious consequences for those who prey on children.

Jeanne Hengemuhle

The Acting Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police, who said the sentencing sends a clear message that anyone who seeks to harm a child will face serious consequences.

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What they’re saying

“Protecting our children, especially from sexual violence, is a top priority of our office. The sentence handed down makes clear that attempting to hurt a child will never be tolerated.”

— Jennifer Davenport, Attorney General of New Jersey

“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.”

— Theresa L. Hilton, Director of the Division of Criminal Justice

“This sentencing sends a clear and unequivocal message: anyone who seeks to harm a child or exploit their innocence will face serious consequences.”

— Jeanne Hengemuhle, Acting Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police

What’s next

The judge's decision on whether to allow Noel out on bail during the appeals process is expected on April 15, 2026.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to protect children from online predators and the serious penalties faced by those who attempt to sexually exploit minors. It serves as a stark warning to anyone considering such abhorrent actions.