Two defendants have pleaded guilty in connection with the death of Genesee County Sheriff's Office Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello at New York's Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel.

Michael Elmore, 33, pleaded guilty to first-degree aggravated manslaughter and obstruction of governmental administration. He faces up to 20 years in prison and five years of supervision upon release when sentenced on December 17.

Lyndsey Jean Wilcox, 39, pleaded guilty to second-degree assault and faces up to six months in jail with five years probation. Her sentencing is scheduled for January 21.

The incident occurred on March 10, 2024, when the duo got into a fight at the casino's bar. After being escorted out by Sgt. Sanfratello and security guards, Elmore returned with a metal chain. He repeatedly struck Sanfratello on the head and face, placed him in a chokehold, and punched him. Though Sanfratello attempted to subdue Elmore with a taser, it proved ineffective.

Despite immediate CPR attempts by fellow officers, Sgt. Sanfratello, a 32-year veteran of the sheriff's office, died at the scene. The casino, located 35 miles west of Rochester, NY, was evacuated during the investigation.

Genesee County District Attorney Kevin Finnell stated that Elmore's plea deal, which reduced his maximum sentence from 25 to 20 years, was appropriate based on the case facts and indictment.

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