Decatur Accepts “Open Plea” Deal in Child Sex Abuse Material Case

A Decatur man has pleaded guilty in a child sexual abuse material case after investigators say hundreds of illegal files were found on his cell phone. Forty-six-year-old Alan Whitcomb accepted a plea agreement that dismisses one of the original three charges against him. However, because Whitcomb entered what’s known as an open plea, prosecutors have not agreed to recommend a specific sentence. That means the judge will have full discretion when punishment is decided. Sentencing is expected in early December. Whitcomb was arrested following the discovery of the files, and the remaining charges now move toward final resolution in court.