Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello Obituary, Death – The Batavia Police Department reported that a sheriff’s sergeant passed away early Sunday following a struggle that occurred during an arrest at Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel. Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello, a 32-year veteran of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, became unresponsive during the incident and CPR was administered.
He was later pronounced dead by a Genesee County coroner. Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch expressed condolences to Sgt. Sanfratello’s family and colleagues during this challenging time. Sanfratello, who was on a special assignment detail, was alerted to an altercation inside the building along with casino security at around 12:45 a.m. Wilcox began struggling with Sanfratello during their exit from the bar area, leading to her arrest with the assistance of casino security staff.
Elmore then attacked Sanfratello, resulting in a physical altercation involving security officers and bystanders. Despite attempting to use a Taser, Sanfratello became unresponsive during the struggle. The investigation into the incident was transferred to the Batavia Police Department, and anyone with information is urged to contact the Batavia Police Detective Bureau or submit a tip online.