NY sheriff's sergeant dies in line of duty after attack during casino dispute, 2 arrested

NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) – Two people were arrested after a New York sheriff's sergeant died on Sunday following an attack by one of the suspects he was trying to arrest following a dispute at a casino in Batavia, located about 45 minutes from East of Buffalo police said.

Genesee County Sheriff’s Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello, a 32-year veteran of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, was on a special assignment at Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel when he was notified of a fight inside the casino while on duty.

After a verbal argument inside the bar area, Sanfratello along with Batavia Downs security tried to escort Michael J. Elmore, 33, and Lyndsey Jean Wilcox, 39, outside.

On their way out, Wilcox allegedly started to attack Sanfratello. With the help of Batavia Downs security staff,  Sanfratello was able to place her under arrest.

Elmore tried to interfere with the arrest and allegedly started attacking Sanfratello. Batavia Downs security officers and civilians tried to help Sanfratello and it turned into a fight, according to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

During the incident, Sanfratello tried to use a taser on Elmore but he continued to be combative.

At a point during the fight, Sanfratello became unresponsive. Despite CPR, Sanfratello was pronounced deceased by the Genesee County Coroner.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family members of Sergeant Sanfratello and all the members of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office at this extremely difficult time,” said Batavia Police Department Chief Shawn Heubusch.

Elmore and Wilcox were arrested following an investigation into the line-of-duty death by the City of Batavia Police Department.

Elmore is facing charges for aggravated manslaughter, aggravated assault upon a police officer and burglary. Wilcox is charged with burglary, attempted assault.

Both individuals were detained at Genesee County Jail and appeared before Judge Mileham in Centralized Arraignment Part Court.

Elmore's bail was set at $100,000 cash, $200,000 bond, or $500,000 partially secured bond.

Wilcox's bail was set at $50,000 cash, $100,000 security bond, or $200,000 partially secured bond. Both are scheduled to appear on Tuesday.

Anyone with any further information is asked to contact the City of Batavia Detective Bureau at 585-345-6311 or by submitting a tip at www.bataviapolice.org .