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Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello

Elmore pleads guilty to manslaughter in death of sergeant, Wilcox also enters plea

By Joanne Beck
elmore wilcox

Michael J. Elmore ended an eight-month ordeal Monday that began with the tragic events that took the life of Sgt. Tom Sanfratello with a guilty plea to aggravated manslaughter in the first degree.

Elmore faces a maximum of 20 years in prison for “intending to cause serious physical injury to a police officer, and as a result, causing the death” of Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello on March 10, 2024, at Batavia Downs. 

Represented by attorneys Joseph Lobosco and Zack Baisley, a soft-spoken Elmore in his tan Monroe County Jail jumpsuit pleaded guilty to the Class B violent felony and to obstructing government administration in the second degree of “trying to intentionally prevent a police officer from performing his official duty by means of intimidation, physical force, or interference” before Judge Donald O’Geen in County Court. 

His plea deal includes a “no more than 20-year determinant sentence,” when he could have served a few more years, Genesee County District Attorney Kevin Finnell said. 

“Michael pled guilty to the top count in the indictment, and he pled guilty to a cap of 20 years, whereas the maximum, if there were a trial, would have been 25,” Finnell said. “I believe that's an appropriate plea for this case, based upon the facts and the indictment.” 

Elmore was indicted by the Grand Jury on counts of:

  • Aggravated manslaughter in the first degree, a Class B felony. He is accused of intending to cause serious physical injury to a police officer and, as result, causing the death of a police officer;
  • Aggravated criminally negligent homicide, a Class C violent felony. He is accused of causing the death of Sanfratello with criminal negligence;
  • Assault in the first degree, a Class B violent felony. Elmore is accused of causing the death of Sanfratello while in the commission of another crime, burglary in the second degree;
  • Burglary in the second degree, a Class C violent felony. He is accused of knowingly entering a building unlawfully with the intent to commit a crime in the building and threatening to use or did use a dangerous instrument.

The incident that led up to Sanfratello's death before midnight on March 9, a Saturday night following a pair of events at Batavia Downs, when Sanfratello and Batavia Downs security responded to the Rush 34 bar for a disturbance. There, Sanfratello confronted Lyndsey Wilcox, 39, of Batavia and ordered Wilcox to leave the building. While being escorted out, she allegedly became combative with Sanfratello. She is accused of hitting Sanfratello several times with the intent to injure him. 

As Wilcox was being arrested, Elmore became involved and was also ordered to leave. He reportedly walked out of the building and came back in with a chain in his hand (a chain he was apparently wearing that night).

During the struggle, which included assistance from Batavia Downs security, Sanfratello reportedly tried to deploy his taser in an attempt to subdue the person attacking him.

According to initial reports, Sanfratello suffered a medical emergency during the struggle, which continued into Sunday, and became unresponsive. There was extensive effort, according to witnesses, to revive him with CPR. He was later pronounced dead by a county coroner.

Wilcox also entered a guilty plea Monday to Count 6 of the indictment, assault in the second degree, a Class D violent felony. She pleaded to “causing physical injury to a police officer who was in the act of performing his official duties.” 

Elmore and Wilcox were both indicted on counts of:

  • Burglary in the second degree, a Class C violent felony. Elmore and Wilcox are accused of remaining unlawfully in a building with the intent to commit a crime in the building and, while in the building, causing serious physical injury to another person;
  • Assault in the second degree, a Class D violent felony. Elmore and Wilcox are accused of causing physical injury to a police officer who was in the act of performing his official duties;
  • Obstruction of governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. The pair is accused of trying to intentionally prevent a police officer from performing his official duty by means of intimidation, physical force, or interference.

Wilcox had also been separately charged with resisting arrest, a Class A Misdemeanor. She was accused of intentionally trying to prevent her legal arrest.

“The offer for Lyndsey included a maximum of six months incarceration, and she's done at least that at this time, so she couldn't get any more jail time. Initially, it's a revocable sentence promise, and it's a revocable, I guess, not a revocable plea, but it has conditions that she refrain from violating the law, cooperate with the probation department, and so forth. So that's why she was released,” Finnell said. “Her involvement was less than Mr. Elmore, and that's why her plea offer was to a D violent felony, and his was to a B violent felony. If Lyndsey had gone to trial and were convicted of the top count that she was charged with, I believe her sentence cap would have been 15 years on the top count.”

Her attorney, John LaDuca, with DuBois Law in Rochester, had asked that she be released on her own recognizance, however Finnell had requested that it be under supervision for her own benefit until sentencing. O’Geen agreed with Finnell, giving her a release under supervision with Genesee Justice.

“This is partially for your benefit,” he said. “If you slip up, the consequences are very large.”

Wilcox was ordered to appear to Genesee Justice after any court appearances and be accountable to that agency. O’Geen asked her attorney if she had any prospects of employment, and LaDuca said there were a couple of job opportunities “that are waiting for her.”

She cannot leave Genesee County without permission from the court or Genesee Justice and is subject to drug testing, and cannot operate a motor vehicle since she has no driver’s license. O’Geen also issued a curfew of 8 p.m. to 7 a.m., which “can be adjusted around work hours as necessary.”

Elmore was remanded to jail without bail. He is scheduled for sentencing at 9:30 a.m. Dec. 17. That may include letters and/or spoken testimony from the victim’s or defendant’s side, Finnell said. 

Wilcox will be sentenced at 10 a.m. Jan. 21.

“I was glad that we could resolve this matter for our client, in our indications likely favorably. So that's the disposition that she chose to go with, and I'm glad that we could resolve this, this was more appropriate at this point,” LaDuca said. “So she's looking forward to getting on to probation, being a good probationer, anyway, so that's a level of supervision in any effect. She would be sentenced to probation at sentencing, and then it's shock probation, but she's already served more than this six months time, so when she gets sentenced, then her time is already served.”

For complete prior coverage of the case and related articles, click here

Sgt. Sanfratello honored for 'bravery and selfless dedication' with memorial parkway

By Joanne Beck
Sgt. SanFratello's son Ian helps unveil a Memorial Parkway sign honoring his dad.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
The late Sgt. Tom SanFratello's son Ian helps unveil a Memorial Parkway sign Wednesday to honor his father during Veterans Day week.
Photo by Steve Ognibene

An idea that began with Genesee County Legislator Gary Maha and moved onto the town of Batavia and throughout the county Sheriff’s Office and beyond to erect a well-deserved memorial parkway sign in the name of the late Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello will now serve as a daily reminder for passersby.

A portion of Park Road, from Veterans Memorial Drive to Richmond Avenue, in the town of Batavia, has been designated as the Sgt. Tom Sanfratello Memorial Parkway in honor of the fallen longtime member of the Sheriff’s Office who died in an incident at Batavia Downs March 10. 

“Officer Tom Sanfratello embodied bravery, selflessness and dedication. His service protected our community, inspiring us all,” Batavia Town Councilwoman Patti Michalak said during a dedication ceremony Wednesday on Park Road. “This road serves as a permanent tribute, reminding us of his commitment and sacrifice to the family of Officer Sanfratello. We offer our deepest condolences and gratitude. May this dedication bring comfort and pride, and may Officer Sanfratello’s memory continue inspiring us forever.”

Michalak then read a proclamation that, “whereas, Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello served and protected the citizens of Genesee County as a deputy sheriff for 28 years, and tragically gave his life in the line of duty on March 10, 2024. And whereas, the town board would like to honor and recognize Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello for his sacrifice by dedicating a portion of Park Road, the Sgt. Tom Sanfratello Memorial Park Road, now let it be proclaimed that the town board does hereby declare that a portion of Park Road, from Veterans Memorial Drive to Richmond Avenue, shall be designated as the Sgt. Tom Sanfratello Memorial Parkway in honor of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello’s sacrifice.”

Undersheriff Bradley Mazur thanked Batavia Town Supervisor Greg Post, town council members and Highway Superintendent Ray Tourt, the county Legislature and Maha, who was also the former county sheriff.

“Legislator Maha approached the town with this idea to move forward with this dedication, and because of his dedication to that, we were able to make this happen,” Mazur said. 

Sanfratello’s sister, Michelle Panasiewicz, thanked everyone for attending and honoring her brother, emphasizing that it couldn’t have happened without everyone’s help.

“This couldn’t have been done without you, and for the support of all of you as we embark on this journey without him. Yes, it’s been difficult, and I’m sure it will be difficult as we go on, but we appreciate each and every one of you as we continue on,” she said. “As we drive down the road and see this, we truly appreciate it. And again, it wouldn’t be done without each and every one of you who made this possible. So, on behalf of the Sanfratello family, the Panasiewicz family, the Diehl family and the Coffey family, we truly appreciate each and every one of you. So thank you. We truly appreciate what you have done. Thank you, and God bless each and every one of you.”

Barry Flansburg represented state Assemblyman Steve Hawley, who was unable to attend, and presented a certificate of merit from the New York State Assembly. The memorial road will serve several purposes, he said.

“One, it will forever honor the sacrifice that Sgt. Sanfratello made,” Flansburg said. “It will also be a reminder to all his fellow deputies and members of the Sheriff's Department, as they see this, as they come to work, and also to the public, for them to remember the dedication of Sgt. Sanfratello, and all the members of law enforcement in Genesee County and the 139th District. So, on behalf of Assemblyman Hawley, I would like to present this certificate to the family.”

Members of the nonprofit Tour de Force were also there to pay tribute and make a donation to the family. The group has nearly 300 riders each year to raise money for families to “make sure we take care of all the New York police officers” that are killed in the line of duty, Robert DePaolis, a retired New York Police detective, said. 

“So when police officers are killed, we sit together, sit down as a board and pick which police officer across the country that we’re going to make the donations to, based on how many, the number of kids there are,” he said.  “We ride our bike from either D.C. to New York or New York to Boston every year to raise this money. Two years ago we rode from one of the hotels in Amherst, we just did four different rides in the Buffalo area so we’re pretty familiar with the area.”

The group donated a check for $10,000 to Panasiewicz for the family. 

UnderSheriff Bradley Mazur opening remarks by the department.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
UnderSheriff Bradley Mazur makes opening remarks on behalf of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
Patricia Michalak from Batavia Town Council reads and presents a proclamation to the family of the late Tom Sanfratello Wednesday. 
Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
Barry Flansburg (on right) from state Assemblyman Steve Hawley's office, gives a Certificate of Merit to Ian SanFratello.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
Members of the nonprofit Tour de Force 9/11 Memorial Bike Ride give a donation to the family of Sgt. SanFratello during a memorial road dedication Wednesday.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene

Jailhouse statements Elmore made to detectives without attorney can be used at trial, judge rules

By Howard B. Owens
elmore wilcox

When Michael L. Elmore, being held at the time in the Genesee County Jail, learned on March 10 that Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello had died following a disturbance at Batavia Downs; he waved his hands and exclaimed, "No, no, no, no, no, no, no."

He then told Det. Jason Iverson, "I didn't kill nobody, bro."

Until then, Elmore apparently didn't understand why he was being held in jail along with his girlfriend, Lyndsey Wilcox.

His statements are included in a decision by County Court Judge Donald O'Geen in response to a motion to suppress statements by Elmore while in custody before he was charged with a crime.

O'Geen ruled that Elmore's statements were either made voluntarily when not being questioned or after he had been read his Miranda Warnings so the statements could be used at trial. The trial of Elmore and Wilcox is currently scheduled for June.

 The Batavian obtained the motions and decisions issued so far in the case after they were made public recently.

Elmore is charged with multiple charges for his alleged attack on Sanfratello, including aggravated manslaughter in the first degree, and Wilcox also faces several charges, including burglary and assault.

According to O'Geen's written decision, the judge reviewed video from a body-worn camera that was left sitting on a desk so it could record Elmore and Wilcox (in separate cells) while they were being detained. He said five hours of footage were captured.

Most of the time, Elmore was quiet.

"At other times, he is heard on the recordings casting insults and threats at corrections officers demanding to know what charges he faces, and talking with his co-defendant Lyndsey Wilcox," O'Geen writes.

When Ivison first arrived with Det. Eric Hill, Elmore said, "I just want to know what's going on."

Ivison told him, "we'll go over that" and told him, "we're here to talk about what happened at Batavia Downs." 

The detective informed Elmore that they were trying to figure out what happened. That they had reviewed video footage and talked with multiple witnesses.

"I gotta refuse ... " Elmore says before Ivison interrupts him.

"Hold on. Before you start, I want to go over a couple of things and make sure you understand your rights."

Then Ivison says, "I also want you to know that the deputy that was there, I don't know if anybody told you this yet or not, but he died."

O'Geen states that Elmore was visibly upset by the news and makes his statement about not killing anybody.

"We're not saying you did," Ivison says. "We're just trying to get your side of the story. I'm just being up front and honest."

Elmore interjects, "I gotta refuse the services of a  ... " and O'Geen says he breaks off at the letter "L." 

O'Geen writes, "Suggesting that he might have intended to say the word 'lawyer." What word he intended is a matter of speculation, however, because he did not say it."

Iverson interrupted and told him he would advise him of his rights, which he did. Elmore did not ask to speak with an attorney before answering questions. 

O'Geen does not include any further portion of the interview.  He ruled last month, "The court finds the people have shown beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant's statements to law enforcement were voluntary."

In a separate ruling, O'Geen said Wilcox could stand trial on a burglary charge.

Her attorney argued in a separate motion that case law precludes the burglary charge because, in his view, there was no evidence she stayed at Batavia Downs after being told leave with the intent to commit another crime. A burglary charge requires a person to enter or stay on premises unlawfully with the intent to commit some other crime.

O'Geen found there was sufficient evidence of intent for a jury to consider the charge.

Hearings reveal new statements by defendants in criminal cases related to death of Sgt. Sanfratello

By Howard B. Owens
Remote video URL
Michael Elmore was escorted from the Town of Batavia Court on March 12 when he spontaneously tells onlookers, "My life over."
Exclusive to The Batavian
elmore wilcox
Michael J. Elmore, Lyndsey J. Wilcox

The ongoing pre-trial process for two defendants connected to an incident at Batavia Downs on March 9 that led to the death of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello continued in Genesee County Court on Friday morning.

Michael J. Elmore is charged with first-degree manslaughter, and Lyndsey J. Wilcox, charged with assault in the second degree, appeared separately in court for hearings on the admissibility at trial of statements they made on March 9 and 10 to police officers. 

The hearings, called a Huntley Hearing, are standard pre-trial appearances in criminal cases.

Sanfratello died shortly after midnight at Batavia Downs during a disturbance that allegedly involved Elmore and Wilcox.  The incident began when Sanfratello, working a special detail at the casino, was dispatched to 34 Rush, a bar in the casino, for a disturbance. He asked those involved, which reportedly included Elmore and Wilcox, to leave the facility.  Wilcox was reportedly complying when she started to resist. Elmore then allegedly attacked Sanfrantello. During the struggle, Sanfrello reportedly suffered a medical event, possibly involving his heart, and died.

Today's hearing focused on statements made by Elmore and Wilcox that were captured by body-worn cameras of police officers, a corrections officer, and a criminal investigator.

At the end of the hearings, Judge Donald O'Geen said to issue a written ruling before the defendant's next court appearance in on Sept. 20.

The first witness called was Deputy Kevin McCarthy, who testified that while preparing to transport Elmore back to the Monroe County Jail following a hearing in Batavia Town Court on March 12, Elmore made the spontaneous (meaning nobody in law enforcement asked him a question or otherwise spoke to him) statement "my life is over." (The Batavian also video recorded Elmore leaving the courthouse -- see video at the top of this story)

No other witnesses were called during Elmore's hearing.

Detective Jason Ivison, Batavia PD, testified that his first contact with Wilcox was just before noon on March 10, when he interviewed Wilcox at the Genesee County Jail. Ivison was apparently the first person to inform Wilcox that Sanfratello had died.

She was already distressed, he said, and that news upset her more.

He read her his Miranda warnings ("You have the right to remain silent," etc.) and then questioned her. His body-worn camera was turned on a DVD of the recording was entered into evidence. 

She agreed to talk with Ivison.

Ivison said Wilcox told him that she had been drinking heavily before going to Batavia Downs and that she had blacked out. She said she didn't remember anything from her time at the casino and didn't understand why she was in jail.

Batavia Patrol Officer Joseph Weglarski testified that he responded to the incident on March 9 while it was in progress. He was later assigned to drive Wilcox to the Genesee County Jail.

He said he didn't ask Wilcox any questions and made no statements to her.  He said she called him several expletives, including "bitch" and "dumb-dumb." 

He said his body-worn camera was on the entire time during the transport. A DVD of that recording was entered into evidence.

Senior Corrections Officer Jason R. Queal took the stand next.

Queal testified he was on duty when Wilcox was brought into the jail for processing, and he handled her intake. He said didn't know why Wilcox was brought to the jail. He later learned there had been a disturbance at Batavia Downs and, then, later learned that Sanfratello had died. Still, during that entire morning, he did not know Wilcox and Elmore were involved in that incident. 

He said Wilcox indicated she did not know why she was at the jail. 

Then Elmore was brought in for intake processing. 

During intake for both defendants, Queal had his body-worn camera attached to his uniform and turned on.

The two defendants were in separate but neighboring cells.  When Elmore started yelling and accusing Queal of breaking his arm, Queal activated his body-worn camera again (it had been off for 45 minutes to an hour). He placed it on a table so that if faced Elmore's cell (the view of Wilcox's cell was blocked by equipment).

He said Wilcox could be heard on the recording. 

He said Elmore was making threatening statements toward him and about law enforcement in general.

He said Wilcox was asking anybody she could why she was in jail. He said he told her he didn't know and didn't hear anybody else give her a reason for her confinement. 

After the hearings, O'Geen said jury selection in the trials will begin on June 16 and take at least three days. The two trials are expected to up to a month, going into the middle of June.

After court, District Attorney Kevin Finnell confirmed both trials would be held simultaneously with both defendants in the courtroom. He said it will be up to the defense attorneys to elect whether to have a single jury for both defendants, separate juries, or have one or both defendants receive a bench trial (no jury, with the judge deciding guilty or not guilty).  He said there is no indication yet how the defense will decide to proceed.

For previous coverage of the case and related events, click here.

Judge in Sanfratello death case considering defense motions

By Howard B. Owens
elmore wilcox
Michael J. Elmore, Lyndsey J. Wilcox

The legal particularities of what evidence may be used at trial were the focus on Wednesday of a pair of hearings for defendants implicated in the death of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello during a confrontation at Batavia Downs on March 10.

At issue is the legal sufficiency of a 710.30 notice, which refers to a portion of Criminal Procedure Law requiring the prosecution to provide notice to the defense of statements made by defendants to public officers.

The defense argues that District Attorney Kevin Finnell didn't provide enough detail in the 710.30 notice to alert them to which statements of their clients captured by police officer body-worn cameras might be used at trial.

County Court Judge Donald O'Geen pressed them on whether the detail they requested was really necessary, given that they received all of the body-worn camera footage obtained by the DA's office. He questioned whether it was realistic for the DA to be completely sure of which statements he might use at this state of the proceedings.

Both attorneys argued that the notices required more detail.

Finnell argued that he might very well use all of the video in question at trial, so the notice he filed provided sufficient information for the defense to prepare for trial.

The defendants are Michael J. Elmore and Lyndsey J. Wilcox. Elmore is charged with multiple charges for his alleged attack on Sanfratello, including aggravated manslaughter in the first degree, and Wilcox also faces several charges, including burglary and assault (full list of charges at the end of this story).

Elmore is represented by Joseph A. Lobosco, and Wilcox is represented by Daniel Dubois and James Vacca.

The hearing on Wednesday morning was the next stage of the process that is likely to lead to criminal trials early next year for Elmore and possibly Wilcox (unless there is a plea agreement). At this stage, defense attorneys make motions, the people (prosecution) file their answering affidavits, then the judge hears limited oral arguments (the purpose of Wednesday's hearing) and then the judge reviews the motions and arguments and issues a ruling.

Lobosco also moved to dismiss the grand jury indictment against Elmore because, in his view, the DA asked too many leading questions (assertions rather than open-ended questions) during grand jury testimony.

"This tainted the entire grand jury process," Lobosco argued.

Finnell defended the grand jury testimony by noting that supposed leading questions were just drawing attention to portions of video and asking witnesses to affirm the accuracy of the video.

The other important issue for Dubois and Vacca in representing Wilcox was the validity of the burglary charge.  The burglary charge is predicated on the assertion that a person remained unlawfully on private property after being asked to leave with the intent to commit another crime.

Vacca argued that a review of the surveillance video shows that Sanfratello confronted Elmore, Wilcox and a third party inside of Rush 34, one of the bars inside of Batavia Downs, and apparently informed them they needed to leave the facility.  The video indicates Wilcox was cooperative and complying and is seen at one point, standing aside and laughing and joking with a female security guard. She then, he said, walks ahead of Sanfratello while being escorted out of the facility. Near the front door, there is, according to Vacca, an inadvertent brush of hands between Wilcox and Sanfratello.

Wilcox reacts to this and hits Sanfratello, so Sanfratello takes her to the ground and places her in handcuffs.  It is after she is in cuffs that Elmore allegedly attacks Sanfratello. 

Dubois argued that Wilcox should not be charged with assault based on the video evidence. That her actions constitution, at most, a violation of the harassment statute.

None of this, the attorneys argue, supports the assertion that Wilcox formed an intent to stay in the building in order to commit a crime.

Finnell countered that the action of Wilcox constituted resisting arrest and that her hitting Sanfratello became assault because he was a police officer conducting his official duties. He also argued that it isn't possible to know when Sanfratello's heart emergency, which eventually led to his death, started.  It could have started, he said, during the confrontation with Wilcox.

O'Geen is expected to issue a ruling before the next court appearances for Elmore and Wilcox on Aug. 23.

Both defendants remain in custody.

Elmore was indicted by the Grand Jury on counts of:

  • Aggravated manslaughter in the first degree, a Class B felony. He is accused of intending to cause serious physical injury to a police officer and, as result, causing the death of a police officer;
  • Aggravated criminally negligent homicide, a Class C violent felony. He is accused of causing the death of Sanfratello with criminal negligence;
  • Assault in the first degree, a Class B violent felony. Elmore is accused of causing the death of Sanfratello while in the commission of another crime, burglary in the second degree;
  • Burglary in the second degree, a Class C violent felony. He is accused of knowingly entering a building unlawfully with the intent to commit a crime in the building and threatening to use or did use a dangerous instrument.

Elmore and Wilcox are indicted on counts of:

  • Burglary in the second degree, a Class C violent felony. Elmore and Wilcox are accused of remaining unlawfully in a building with the intent to commit a crime in the building and, while in the building, causing serious physical injury to another person;
  • Assault in the second degree, a Class D violent felony. Elmore and Wilcox are accused of causing physical injury to a police officer who was in the act of performing his official duties;
  • Obstruction of governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. The pair is accused of trying to intentionally prevent a police officer from performing his official duty by means of intimidation, physical force, or interference.

Genesee County's STOP-DWI night at the ballpark honors Sgt. Sanfratello's family with special tribute

By Press Release
img_5910.jpg
Photo of (from left to right) Kyla, Ian & Alexis Sanfratello.
Submitted photo. 

Press Release:

Genesee County STOP-DWI and the Genesee County Youth Bureau are partnering with the Batavia Muckdogs to host the annual STOP-DWI Night at the Ballpark on Thursday, July 18 at Dwyer Stadium. 

The Genesee County Youth Bureau has a limited supply of complimentary tickets available for youth and their families. Get your tickets before they run out by calling 585-344-3960.

This year’s STOP-DWI event is dedicated to the families of Genesee County law enforcement officers. Our officers put their lives on the line every day to serve & protect, while often missing holidays, celebrations, and other milestones with their children, spouses, parents, partners, siblings, and other family members. 

Genesee County STOP-DWI will be recognizing this sacrifice with a special tribute to the Sanfratello family. Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello made the ultimate sacrifice when his life was lost in the line of duty on March 10. Throughout his 32 years of service, Sgt. Sanfratello spent countless hours away from his family dedicated to STOP-DWI work details. 

Help us cheer on Sgt. Sanfratello’s family as they throw out this year’s first pitch. Join us for this family-focused evening with the Batavia Muckdogs. Gates open at 5:35 p.m. and the game starts at 6:35 p.m.

A special thank you to all event sponsors and contributors helping make this event possible including Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel, Chapin Manufacturing, UConnect Care, Gerace Realty, Graham Corporation, Kiwanis of Batavia, LeRoy Moose Family Center, Lions Club of Batavia, Marchese Computers, Polish Falcons Nest #493, and the WNY Association of Chiefs of Police.

Alexander senior receives first Sanfratello scholarship award

By Press Release
sanfratello scholarship
Genesee County Corrections Officer Ian Sanfratello, son of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello and a  GCSEA member, along with Brooke Kochmanski, Alexander High School senior and scholarship recipient and Nathan Fix, president of the Genesee County Sheriff's Employee Association.
Submitted photo.

Press release:

At the Annual  Alexander  Senior Awards night, Brooke Kochmanski of Alexander High School was awarded as the first recipient of the  Sergeant Thomas Sanfratello Memorial Scholarship.  

Genesee County seniors can apply and must be residents of Genesee County. The applicant must be a graduating high school senior who will be attending an accredited college or university in the fall. The scholarship award must be payable to an accredited college or university, and the applicant must be pursuing a career in the criminal justice field. A copy of the applicant’s most current transcript (high school or college, as appropriate) must be submitted. 

The NYSDA and GCSEA hope to see this scholarship grow in funding in the future years.

The New York State Deputies Association, Inc., along with the Genesee County Sheriff's Employee Association, has created this scholarship to keep Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello's legacy alive in local law enforcement so our youth can continue to protect and serve our community.

Charity softball game in Elba benefits both students and Sanfratello family

By Howard B. Owens
elba softball game

Elba's annual scholarship fund game on Tuesday was also a fundraiser for the family of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello.

Proceeds were split between the scholarship fund and for support of the family.

Sanfratello died in the line of duty while trying to arrest two individuals at Batavia Downs on March 10. 

Photos by Debra Reilly.

elba softball game
elba softball game
elba softball game
elba softball game
elba softball game

Photos: Back the Blue 4K cornhole tournament honors Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, raises funds to support family

By Steve Ognibene
Family members Rachel Diehl, Ian and Kyla Sanfratello, of SGT. Thomas Sanfratello toss out the first throw of the cornhole tournament in his honor  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Family members (left to right) Rachel Diehl, Ian and Kyla Sanfratello, of Sergeant Thomas Sanfratello, toss out the first throw of the cornhole tournament Saturday in his honor. 
Photo by Steve Ognibene

A cornhole tournament was hosted by the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena on Saturday.  Proceeds from the Back the Blue Tournament benefit the family of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello. The Sheriff's Office veteran died in the line of duty on March 10.,

Genesee County Sheriff honorguard colors during the national anthem.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Genesee County Sheriff honor guard colors during the National Anthem.  
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene

 

Mike Borrelli owner of Cornyfellas, cornhole tournament organizer running todays fundraiser event for the family of Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Mike Borrelli, owner of Cornyfellas, cornhole tournament organizer of Saturday’s fundraiser event for the family of Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello. 
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Over 75 teams participated in todays event.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
More than 75 teams participated in Saturday’s event.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
A cornhole participant prepares for todays event.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
A cornhole participant prepares for the event.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene

Mattel donates four cases of Hot Wheels cars to local law enforcement in honor of Sgt. Sanfratello

By Press Release
hot wheels sanfratello donation
Batavia Police Officer Wesley Rissinger; Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, CID Chief Deputy Joseph Graff; Director of Emergency Communications Frank Riccobono, retired Emergency Services Dispatcher Lynn Riccobono; Sergeant Kyle Krzemien, Genesee Justice Program Coordinator Diana Prinzi, Justice for Children Advocacy Center Program Coordinator Trisha Reynolds, Undersheriff Bradley Mazur; Corfu Police Officer Tommy LaBelle; Le Roy Police Officer Jordan Wolcott.
Submitted Photo.

Press release:

Genesee County Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello passed away in the line of duty on March 10, 2024. While he will be remembered for his many contributions to the Sheriff’s Office and the Genesee County community, everyone may not be aware that he was also known for his love of Hot Wheels die-cast cars. 

Shortly after Sergeant Sanfratello’s passing, retired Emergency Services Dispatcher Lynn Riccobono wanted to do something to honor Tommy. Riccobono, who worked her entire career at the Sheriff’s Office with Sergeant Sanfratello, knew that he kept Hot Wheels cars in his office drawer and would give them to children who came into the Sheriff’s Office.  Riccobono reached out to Mattel, Inc. (the manufacturer of the Hot Wheels cars) and told them Sergeant Sanfratello’s story.  Mattel, Inc. responded by graciously shipping four cases of Hot Wheels cars along with their condolences for the loss of Sergeant Sanfratello.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is sharing this donation with other Genesee County police agencies, Genesee Justice, and the Justice for Children Advocacy Center to distribute the cars to children they interact with in Sergeant Sanfratello’s honor.

hot wheels sanfratello donation
Submitted Photo.
hot wheels sanfratello donation
Submitted Photo.

Elmore, Wilcox make initial County Court appearances in Sanfratello case

By Howard B. Owens
Lyndsey Jean Wilcox
Lyndsey Wilcox
michael j. elmore
Michael Elmore

Genesee County's justice system took another step forward on Monday in the prosecution of Michael J. Elmore, implicated in the March 10 death of Sgt. line-of-duty death Thomas A. Sanfratello, and co-defendant Lyndsey J. Wilcox.

Both Elmore and Wilcox appeared in County Court before Judge Donald O'Geen for the first time and their attorneys, on their behalf, entered not-guilty pleas to the criminal indictments filed against each of them.

The hearing was standard procedure, with District Attorney Kevin Finnell affirming he had supplied the defense with all available discovery material, requesting an alibis demand, and stating that the people are ready for trial.

O'Geen then outlined the case's milestone dates, including trial dates if it reaches that far in the process.

The defense attorneys—Joseph A. Lobosco for Elmore and Daniel J. Dubois for Wilcox—have until July 12 to file motions. Defense attorneys typically file motions in criminal cases challenging the admissibility of evidence, the relevance of witnesses, and the possibility of constitutional violations (though every case is different, and there's been no public discussion of what motions the attorneys might make in this case).

The prosecution has until July 26 to file an answer to the motions.

Any hearing on the motions or other pre-trial issues will be held at 9:30 a.m. on July 31.

O'Geen provided each attorney with an anticipated schedule of proceedings after initial motions.

He set Aug. 23 at 9:30 a.m. for a hearing on any pre-trial motions, a follow-up hearing date of Sept. 20, a plea cutoff (the last day for defendants to accept any pending plea offer before trial) of Oct. 16 and a hearing date on any pending issues for Nov. 15.  Then, if there is a trial, jury selection on Jan. 21.  Opening arguments would begin on Jan. 23, with the trial scheduled to last until Feb. 11.

When Elmore and Wilcox were first arrested, they faced the same charges and both were ordered held on $100,000 bail.

On Monday, Dubois asked that his client, Wilcox, be released under supervision given the reduction of the top charges against her to burglary and assault.  Finnell argued that since the top charges include mandatory prison terms if convicted, Wilcox should be held on bail.  O'Geen reduced her bail to $20,000 cash, $50,000 bond, or $100,000 partially secured bond.

Elmore was indicted by the Grand Jury on counts of:

  • Aggravated manslaughter in the first degree, a Class B felony. He is accused of intending to cause serious physical injury to a police officer and, as result, causing the death of a police officer;
  • Aggravated criminally negligent homicide, a Class C violent felony. He is accused of causing the death of Sanfratello with criminal negligence;
  • Assault in the first degree, a Class B violent felony. Elmore is accused of causing the death of Sanfratello while in the commission of another crime, burglary in the second degree;
  • Burglary in the second degree, a Class C violent felony. He is accused of knowingly entering a building unlawfully with the intent to commit a crime in the building and threatening to use or did use a dangerous instrument.

Elmore and Wilcox are indicted on counts of:

  • Burglary in the second degree, a Class C violent felony. Elmore and Wilcox are accused of remaining unlawfully in a building with the intent to commit a crime in the building and, while in the building, causing serious physical injury to another person;
  • Assault in the second degree, a Class D violent felony. Elmore and Wilcox are accused of causing physical injury to a police officer who was in the act of performing his official duties;
  • Obstruction of governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. The pair is accused of trying to intentionally prevent a police officer from performing his official duty by means of intimidation, physical force, or interference.

Wilcox is separately charged with resisting arrest, a Class A Misdemeanor. She is accused of intentionally trying to prevent her legal arrest.

The incident that led up to Sanfratello's death began at 12:43 a.m. on March 10, a Sunday morning following a pair of events at Batavia Downs on Saturday night, when Sanfratello and Batavia Downs security responded to the Rush 34 bar for a disturbance. There, Sanfratello confronted Wilcox, 39, of Batavia and ordered Wilcox to leave the building. While being escorted out, she allegedly became combative with Sanfratello. She is accused of hitting Sanfratello several times with the intent to injure him. 

As Wilcox was being arrested, Elmore became involved and was also ordered to leave. He reportedly walked out of the building and came back in with a chain in his hand (a chain he was apparently wearing that night).

During the struggle, which included assistance from Batavia Downs security, Sanfratello reportedly tried to deploy his taser in an attempt to subdue the person attacking him.

According to initial reports, Sanfratello suffered a medical emergency during the struggle and became unresponsive. There was extensive effort, according to witnesses, to revive him with CPR. He was later pronounced dead by a county coroner.

For complete prior coverage of the case and related articles, click here

DA says Grand Jury indictment of Elmore and Wilcox in death of Sanfratello supported by evidence

By Howard B. Owens
michael-j-elmore-town-of-batavia-court
File photo of Michael Elmore entering the Town of Batavia Court for his initial arraignment on criminal charges.
Photo by Howard Owens

Some in the community may want Michael J. Elmore, accused of causing the death of Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello on March 10 at Batavia Downs, to face a murder charge, but District Attorney Kevin Finnell said he believes a Genesee County Grand Jury reached the correct decision when it delivered an aggravated manslaughter count against Elmore.

michael j. elmore
Michael J. Elmore

Finnell said that, as a legal matter, he couldn't reveal whether the Grand Jury even considered a murder charge or if he sought murder as a possible count against Elmore, but he did say the Grand Jury reached its conclusion for the counts against Elmore based on evidence.

"As you know, I can’t discuss what transpired with or in the grand jury, so I can only say that the charges that were filed with the indictment were supported by the evidence," Finnell said. "As for the original charging decisions, I would advise that my office and the Batavia City Police Department had discussions regarding the charges that would be filed by BPD, and those that were filed were the most appropriate given the information that was available at the time."

Elmore is accused of fighting with Sanfratello when the 32-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office tried to eject Elmore and Lyndsey J. Wilccox from a bar at the casino.

According to charging documents filed immediately after Elmore's arrest, Elmore left the facility and returned with a heavy metal chain in his hands. The chain was apparently jewelry he was wearing at the time. Elmore is accused of hitting Sanfratello with his fists and with the chains and, at one point, getting Sanfratello in a chokehold.

A source connected to the investigation has told The Batavian that Elmore wrapped the chain around his fist and hit Sanfratello with it wrapped around his fist. Finnell said he couldn't discuss exactly how the defendant may have deployed the chain.

"The information we have about the incident involving the chain specifically is that Mr. Elmore removed it from his neck and held it in his hand as he fought with Sgt. Sanfratello and Batavia Downs Security," Finnell said. "Mr. Elmore threw punches with the chain in his possession. I can’t comment further on the manner in which the chain was utilized."

Elmore's social media posts indicate that he has, on occasion, worn heavy metal chain necklaces. 

The incident that led up to Sanfratello's death began at 12:43 a.m. on March 10, a Sunday morning following a pair of events at Batavia Downs on Saturday night, when Sanfratello and Batavia Downs security responded to the Rush 34 bar for a disturbance. There, Sanfratello confronted Wilcox, 39, of Batavia and ordered Wilcox to leave the building. While being escorted out, she allegedly became combative with Sanfratello. She is accused of hitting Sanfratello several times with the intent to injure him. 

Lyndsey Jean Wilcox
Lyndsey J. Wilcox

As Wilcox was being arrested, Elmore became involved and was also ordered to leave. He reportedly walked out of the building and came back in with a chain in his hand (a chain he was apparently wearing that night).

During the struggle, which included assistance from Batavia Downs security, Sanfratello reportedly tried to deploy his taser in an attempt to subdue the person attacking him.

According to initial reports, Sanfratello suffered a medical emergency during the struggle and became unresponsive. There was extensive effort, according to witnesses, to revive him with CPR. He was later pronounced dead by a county coroner.

Elmore was indicted by the Grand Jury on counts of:

  • Aggravated manslaughter in the first degree, a Class B felony. He is accused of intending to cause serious physical injury to a police officer and, as result, causing the death of a police officer;
  • Aggravated criminally negligent homicide, a Class C violent felony. He is accused of causing the death of Sanfratello with criminal negligence;
  • Assault in the first degree, a Class B violent felony. Elmore is accused of causing the death of Sanfratello while in the commission of another crime, burglary in the second degree;
  • Burglary in the second degree, a Class C violent felony. He is accused of knowingly entering a building unlawfully with the intent to commit a crime in the building and threatening to use or did use a dangerous instrument.

Elmore and co-defendant Wilcox are indicted on counts of:

  • Burglary in the second degree, a Class C violent felony. Elmore and Wilcox are accused of remaining unlawfully in a building with the intent to commit a crime in the building and, while in the building, causing serious physical injury to another person;
  • Assault in the second degree, a Class D violent felony. Elmore and Wilcox are accused of causing physical injury to a police officer who was in the act of performing his official duties;
  • Obstruction of governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. The pair is accused of trying to intentionally prevent a police officer from performing his official duty by means of intimidation, physical force, or interference.

Wilcox is separately charged with resisting arrest, a Class A Misdemeanor. She is accused of intentionally trying to prevent her legal arrest.

Elmore and Wilcox will be arraigned in County Court on the counts in the indictment on May 20. 

For previous coverage of the death of Sgt. Sanfratello, click here.

Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello honored by Buffalo Sabres as Fan of the Year

By Howard B. Owens
Remote video URL

As part of Fan Appreciation Night on Thursday, the Buffalo Sabres honored Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello as the team's Fan of the Year.

Sanfratello, a 34-year veteran of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, died in the line of duty on March 10 while dealing with a disturbance at Batavia Downs. Two Batavia residents are accused of resisting arrest. Michael Elmore is accused of using a heavy piece of jewelry, a chain necklace, to hit Sanfratello during a struggle.

The tribute included a video highlighting Sanfratello's career in law enforcement and the bond Tom and his son Ian shared through their love of the Sabres. Ian and his sisters, Kyla and Alexis, were on the ice for a presentation of a memorial jersey to the family.  The Sheriff's Office Color Guard presented the colors and the National Anthem was sung by by Buffalo resident Cami Clune, who also has a bit of a connection to Batavia in that she has performed at Eli Fish Brewing.

For previous coverage of the passing of Sgt. Sanfratello, click here.

Photos: Blue lights in Oakfield honoring Sgt. Sanfratello and as show of support for his daughter

By Howard B. Owens
oakfield blue lights sanfratello

Last week, in the wake of the death of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello, the Oakfield Betterment Committee distributed blue lights to local businesses and Oakfield residents.

Betterment Committee President Jamie Lindsley stated:

The Oakfield community likes to support one of their own, as was evident ever since the line-of-duty loss of Sgt. Sanfratello, a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department. Last week, caring citizen Kristen Porter decided to show support for Sgt. Sanfratello's daughter Alexis, who is a student at Oakfield-Alabama Central School, by lighting a blue light in honor of the fallen deputy. Another community member, Kate Engle, took this tribute to the entire community by engaging the assistance of Oakfield Betterment Committee members. Together, they contacted local Home Depots, Lowes, and other stores and arranged pickups and distributions to the entire Oakfield area and some surrounding communities. Joshua Schultz took it upon himself to drive all the way from Syracuse with a delivery of 50 blue light bulbs. A dozen bulbs were donated to illuminate all front windows of School House Manor in the middle of the village. In total, over 300 blue light bulbs were donated and handed out to the community, and each night, the night is brightly lit blue to honor our fallen deputy and show our support as a community for Alexis.

The committee shared these photos with The Batavian.

For prior coverage of Sgt. Sanfratello, click here.

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oakfield blue lights sanfratello

Sheriff Sheron thanks community for support during time of loss

By Press Release
sanfratello funeral at gcc
File photo from Saturday's funeral service for Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello in the Call Arena at Genesee County College of Sheriff William Sheron.
Photo by Howard Owens

Statement from Sheriff William Sheron:

On behalf of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, I would like to thank the community, emergency service responders, fellow law enforcement agencies, and state and local government officials for your immense support to the Sanfratello and Genesee County Sheriff’s Office family during our time of loss.  We have received support locally, from across the state, and nationally and your words and gestures are very much appreciated.  Sergeant Sanfratello was a special person to all who knew him, and he will be missed tremendously.

Alexander GOP looking for candidates to fill town board seat left vacant by death of Sanfratello

By Press Release

Press release:

The Town of Alexander Republican Committee is deeply saddened by the loss of our committee member, Thomas Sanfratello.  

Tom started as a Republican Committee member for District #1 and never said "no" as further positions became available.  He didn't hesitate to make himself available when a position became open on the Town Board and then, most recently, a representative to the Genesee County Republican Committee.  Tom's knowledge of civil and town law and his strong commitment to the residents of the town of Alexander made him an exceptional addition to the Board.  He will be sadly missed by all.

Due to New York State Board of Election laws, the Alexander Republican Committee has to act quickly to submit a replacement for Council member Sanfratello.  That candidate will become the Republican candidate in the November 2024 General Election.  The Alexander Republican Committee will have a meeting on Thursday, March 21st, 2024, at 7 p.m. at the Alexander Town Hall.  Any Town of Alexander registered Republican who is interested in becoming endorsed by our Committee for the position of Council member, please contact Chairperson Barbara Eddy at 585-507-9930.  

Recap: Last week's coverage of the passing of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello

By Howard B. Owens
sanfratello riptides
Members of the GLOW Riptide Swim Club honored Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello during its meet last week in Long Island.
Photo submitted by Chris Erion.

For those who may have missed some of the stories and events, here's a recap of our coverage of news and events related to the death of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello:

Remote video URL
This video was shot for The Batavian on Friday when the hearse carrying the casket of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello was escorted from Gilmartin Funeral Home to Genesee Community College in preperation for the funeral on Saturday.  We neglected to publish it on Friday we are sharing it in this post.

'Godspeed GS-9': Sgt. Sanfratello honored in service at GCC

By Howard B. Owens
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Ian Sanfratello recalled what his father meant to the community, to his family, and as a father who shared a love with his son for Sabres hockey during the funeral service on Saturday for Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello.
Photo by Howard Owens.

In a service inside the Call Arena at Genesee Community College, Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello was remembered as a man who was committed to protecting and serving our community, a man who loved his children, and as a man who enjoyed his work and his hobbies.

"Grandma Sanfratello stopped me last night," said Pastor Ryan Macdonald of City Church, who officiated the service. "She said, 'Come here, pastor.' She called me over for a beautiful moment, and she whispered to me, she said, 'Pastor, please tell the people tomorrow how much Tom loved this community. Please tell them tomorrow that Jesus gave us time for a moment, for a season, and then Jesus came, and he walked him through those pearly gates and into heaven.' She went on to tell me, 'Tell the people today that Tom passed doing what he loved to do. No greater love than a man show than that he would lay his life down for his friends. Please tell them, pastor, that Tom loved being a servant and that Tom shared his love as long as he could.' 

"I believe with all my heart," Macdonald added, "that Sgt Sanfratello understood God's love."

Sanfratello died early Sunday morning at Batavia Downs while trying to deal with two customers who had been asked to leave 34 Rush. One of those customers is accused of violently attacking the 32-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office, reportedly pulling a heavy chain from around his neck and striking Sanfrantello with it. The cause of death has not been released, but the suspect, Michael J. Elmore, 33, of Batavia, has been charged with manslaughter.

Saturday's funeral was attended by hundreds of first responders, including police officers from throughout the region and from as far away as New York City and Chicago.  There were also hundreds of members of the community at the Call Arena, including friends and family.

His sister Michelle Panasiewicz and his son Ian Sanfratello, along with Sheriff William Sheron, were the speakers.

Panasiewicz recalled growing up with her brother and watching him grow into a man who served his community and loved his family, especially his children, Ian, Kyla, and Alexis.

"Nothing made him prouder than spending time with them and watching them grow into the people that they have become," Panasiewicz said.

Growing up, as siblings do, Tom and Michelle had their differences, but as adults, she said, Tom was the strength of the family.

"When I had a question that my husband Joel couldn't answer, I'd call or text Tom," she said. "More often than not, he had the answer. We leaned on each other when we needed to, and we always knew that we were there for each other no matter what time of day or night without needing words."

She asked how she and the family would go on without Tom.

"I guess I have to learn that I have my family, my friends, my loved ones and we will continue to go on," Panasiewicz said. "This memory will live on, and all of us will continue to have a memorial of some kind. Or, like I said, his memory will never go away. He was loved by too many for his memory to ever go away."

sanfratello sheriff's officer of the year
Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello was twice named Officer of the Year for the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, including in 2012, when Gary Maha, right, was sheriff and William Sheron was undersheriff.
File photo by Howard Owens.

Sheron noted that Sanfratello dedicated his entire adult life to serving people, first as an EMT who put himself through training, working in Buffalo and Rochester, as a volunteer for the Alexander Fire Department, as a dispatcher in Batavia, before joining the Sheriff's Office in 1992 as a dispatcher.

"You knew, right from the beginning, there's something special about Tommy," Sheron said. "You know, there are individuals when you hire him, you just go, 'This guy is going to go somewhere. Tommy would take on tasks in the communication room that might have been lingering for years. But Tommy's energy, he just got in there and got it done."

Sanfratello collected Hot Wheels and Legos and attended conventions all over the country for collectors.  He loved children and kept a bucket of Hot Wheels in his office to share with children who visited the office, either with department family members or when caught up in some serious situation.

It's no surprise, then, that one of Sanfratello's favorite duties was helping to organize the Christmastime Shop with a Cop at Walmart.

"He loved doing that," Sheron said. "He loved kids. He loved helping people."

Ian, now himself a corrections officer who graduated from the academy top in his class, recalled seeing his dad in action at work and said he was clearly a leader in the Sheriff's Office.


See also: At Darien Lake, 'Tommy had it under control'


"He did try to steer everybody in the right direction," Ian said. "Even if he didn't see eye-to-eye with someone, he would always have their back and trust them with his life."

He said, "Deputies would tell me how he was the glue that held the department together. They don't know what they will do without him.  One way of looking at it, as I have the past couple of days, when he passed away was he was doing what he loved. He loved working overtime."

Ian recalled how they shared love for Buffalo Sabres hockey. He said he will miss their phone calls -- win or lose, they would critique the games, either what the Sabres did right or what they need to improve. 

"It won't be the same any more ," he said, but he hopes someday he will have a son to carry on the family tradition.

Ian closed his remarks: "Godspeed GS-9."


See Also: A full showing of support for Sgt. Sanfratello


  • To listen to an MP3 of the Last Call for Sgt. Sanfratello, GS-9, Click Here.
  • To view more photos from the service, Click Here

sanfratello funeral at gcc
Michelle Panasiewicz rubbing her hands together the way her brother, Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello, would when he was excited about something.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
While members of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office salute, the Keystone Club Police Pipes & Drums Corp. enter the Call Arena.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Hundreds of police officers from throughout Western New York and as far away as New York City and Chicago, attended the funeral for Thomas A. Sanfratello.
Photo by Howard Owens
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Sgt.  Kyle Krzemien and Sgt. Andrew Hale.
Photo by Howard Owens
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Pastor Ryan Macdonald
Photo by Howard Owens
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Colorguard entering the service.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Pastor Ryan Macdonald.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Sheriff William Sheron.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Corrections Officer Ian Sanfratello, son of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Officers praying during the service.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Sheriff William Sheron exiting the service.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Sheriff's deputies, including Patrick Reeves, leaving the service.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Fly over by Mercy Flight.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Photo by Howard Owens.

A full showing of support for Sgt. Sanfratello

By Joanne Beck
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral Saturday at the Richard C. Call Arena at Genesee Community College in Batavia. 
Photos by Steve Ognibene

Several contingencies of law enforcement and first responders represented the region Saturday during the funeral service for Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, who died in the line of duty March 10.

Throughout the week flags have been set at half mast throughout Genesee County and in downtown Batavia, people have made memorial one-mile runs, the county court house cupola has been lit up in blue, a sheriff’s cruiser has been adorned with flowers by citizens in Sanfratello’s memory in front of the Sheriff’s Office, and countless condolences and heartfelt messages have been expressed via news articles and social media for an undeniable fallen hero.

A burial was scheduled to follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

Photos by Steve Ognibene

Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene

At Darien Lake, 'Tommy had it under control'

By Howard B. Owens
sanfratello darien lake

These are file photos of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello working on one of his favorite details -- law enforcement at Darien Lake concerts.

In 2012, I did a "ride along" with patrols at the concerts to get a first-hand perspective of what went into dealing with all the issues that used to arise on concert nights.

While I had run into Tom on patrol before, working with him at Darien Lake was really my first chance to get to know him a bit.  He struck me as kind, professional, caring, and dedicated.

He took the job seriously without taking himself seriously. There was a complete absence of ego in his approach to enforcing the law.

When two young people climbed up a communications tower, I remember him being simultaneously amused by the folly of it and sincerely concerned about their safety.

At Saturday's funeral service for Sgt. Sanfratello, Sheriff William Sheron spoke of "Tommy" taking charge at Darien Lake.

"As we all know, Tom was the guy out at Darien Lake," Sheron said. "He was the first one there, and he was the last one out. He oversaw that venue for years and years. And again, when Tommy was on, I didn't worry about anything. Tommy, I knew, had things under control. We were dealing with tens of thousands of people and many, many officers. Tommy had it all under control."

Unrelated from Darien Lake, we received two more tributes to Sgt. Sanfratello to share.

Eric Olson, retired from the Sheriff's Office:

I’ve known Tom for a long time.  He is a true friend and law enforcement brother.  I will miss the 4th of July gatherings and the occasional conversations here and there.

From Deborah Shea, principal financial clerk, Sheriff's Office:

As we navigate through these next few days, I’ve thought a lot about my boss, my friend, my co-worker and most of all, my annoying “big brother” this week. 

That’s what comes to my mind when I think of Sgt. Tom (Tommy) Sanfratello.  We worked 50 feet from each other for 12 years, and we argued and teased one another just like brother and sister, even crying once in a while. He was so maddening at times, but at the end of the day, we were friends, and tomorrow was another day. And when he walked out of the office last Friday and said, as always, “See you Monday, maybe,” it was not supposed to be goodbye! 

I would sing along to the radio, and he’d say, “Don’t quit your day job,” and of course I’d say, “You wish!” He’d also say, every day, 10 times a day, “Whatever, Shea!” And on occasion, in typical Tommy fashion, he’d tell you, “Sink or swim!” I never thought I’d ever miss these words!

His presence In our office was larger than any of us could have imagined until we walked back in Monday morning and the loss hit me immediately.  

He had his quirks, his funny habits and definitely a Hot Wheels and Lego fetish, but it was him and who he was.  He loved to read and joke around and make his funny comments.  He loved having his annual Easter egg hunt and fantasy football league.  He wore many hats in our office and has big shoes to fill, and it will be a hard act to follow. No matter what he did in his life and career, his biggest accomplishments are his 3 amazing kids, Ian, Kyla and Lexi. He loved them more than life itself.  He was not a fall-all-over-you or mushy kind of guy, but he honestly had a big heart and really cared for the people closest to him, especially his family, friends and our department for sure. 

Thanks for your friendship and all the laughs.

You will be, as they say, forever missed and never forgotten!

Fly high GS 9

Finally, retired Batavia PD lieutenant James Henning had this to say about Saturday's service:

What a tremendous outpouring of support shown today for the family, friends, fellow citizens and coworkers of GS-9!

The entire wake and funeral service was incredibly organized and a fitting tribute to a great man and public servant.

GCSO, BPD, LPD & NYSP did a fantastic job of working shoulder to shoulder to make this all possible, along with the numerous fire departments and EMS in Genesee County.

Also, the entire staff of GCC for hosting this memorial and area restaurants for catering the gathering at the college afterward.

The police and fire agencies present were amazing from as far away as Chicago PD and NYPD.

R.I.P.  GS-9

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