The Batavia Police Department has released further information regarding the tragic death of a police officer at the Batavia Downs Casino.
Michael Elmore, 33, and Lindsey Jean Wilcox, 39, were arrested Sunday after a vicious attack that left Genesee County Sheriff’s Sergeant John Wilcox with fatal injuries. Thomas Sanfratello, 54 years old.
The incident began shortly after midnight, when Sanfratello reportedly ordered a couple who had caused a disturbance at the venue’s Rush 34 bar to leave the casino.
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Suspect Michael Elmore was arrested Sunday after a fatal confrontation with Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello. He has been charged with two felonies and has pleaded not guilty. (Batavia City Police Station)
The couple reportedly acted disorderly and attempted to punch Mr. Sanfratello before officers managed to escort them from the casino.
Elmore then returned with a thick “chain” and brandished it at the officer, charging at him, choking him and punching him repeatedly.
“The ‘chain’ described in the accusing device used against Sergeant Sanfratello in this case, which led to his death, was a thick piece of jewelry or a necklace commonly worn around the neck.” The police department announced. issued a statement on Tuesday.
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Sergeant Thomas Sanfratello died earlier this week after suspect Michael Elmore allegedly brandished a “chain” at an officer and choked him during a confrontation at the Batavia Downs casino. (Batavia City Police Station)
Authorities said Sanfratello became unresponsive during the assault and could not be revived despite CPR. He passed away early Sunday morning.
“It is with deep regret and sadness that the Genes County Sheriff’s Office announces the loss of life in the line of duty of Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello, 54, who died in the line of duty on March 10, 2024. “Mission Details at Batavia Downs,” the Jenness County Sheriff’s Office said in a press release after Sanfratello’s death.
“Sergeant Sanfratello’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from his friends and first responders.”
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Lindsey Wilcox was arrested along with Michael Elmore on Sunday after Elmore allegedly choked and beat a police officer to death at the Batavia Downs Casino. (Batavia City Police Station)
Elmore is charged with two felonies: aggravated manslaughter and aggravated assault on a police officer.
Wilcox was charged with attempted assault. Both suspects are also charged with second-degree theft.
The couple has been in court since the incident. Both men have pleaded not guilty, and Elmore’s trial is scheduled to begin April 9th, while Wilcox’s trial is scheduled to begin April 23rd.
