Published on: November 19, 2024, 06:29h. 

Last updated on: November 19, 2024, 06:29h.

Two defendants entered guilty pleas on Monday in connection with the tragic death of a police sergeant at New York’s Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel.

As part of the plea agreement, 33-year-old Michael Elmore pleaded guilty to first-degree aggravated manslaughter and obstruction of governmental administration.

Upon sentencing on December 17, he could potentially face up to 20 years in prison and five years of supervision post-release.

“He pleaded guilty to a cap of 20 years, where the maximum, if there was a trial, would have been 25,” Genesee County District Attorney Kevin Finnell told New York State TV station WHAM.

“I believe that’s an appropriate plea for this case and based upon the facts in the indictment,” Finnell added.

In addition, 39-year-old Lyndsey Jean Wilcox pleaded guilty to second-degree assault and is set to be sentenced on January 21, facing up to six months in jail and five years on probation.

Bar Altercation

The pair engaged in a brawl at the casino’s bar on March 10, 2024. Wilcox later attacked Genesee County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello during her arrest.

Sanfratello, who was on duty at the casino, had instructed the two suspects to leave the premises.

Eventually, Sanfratello and casino security personnel escorted the suspects out of the building.

Assault with a Chain

However, Elmore returned after leaving armed with a metal chain. He repeatedly struck Sanfratello with the chain on his head and face, as reported by WHAM. He also put the officer in a chokehold and punched him, according to witness statements.

At one point, Sanfratello attempted to use a taser on Elmore, according to New York TV station WROC, but it did not incapacitate him.

Sanfratello, aged 54, sustained serious injuries. Despite efforts to revive him through CPR, he succumbed to his injuries at the site. He had served at the sheriff’s office for 32 years.

Following the incident, the casino was temporarily evacuated as investigations took place.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Sergeant Sanfratello and all members of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during this extremely challenging time,” stated Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch in a March release after Sanfratello’s passing, as reported by the New York Post.

Batavia Downs is situated in Batavia, approximately 35 miles west of Rochester, N.Y.