A detective in South Carolina was taken into custody and terminated after allegedly aiming his department-issued firearm at a colleague in the police station. The incident reportedly arose due to an officer using a communal microwave to heat fish.
Michael Debiase, 46, served as a detective with the Myrtle Beach Police Department. He was arrested on June 2 and charged with pointing and presenting a firearm at another person. An arrest warrant suggests Debiase became upset over the microwaving of fish, leading to his alleged actions.
The Myrtle Beach Police Department announced Debiase’s separation from employment following an internal inquiry.
“Michael Debiase was arrested June 2 for allegedly aiming his weapon at a fellow police officer.”
According to a department statement on Facebook, Debiase allegedly removed his firearm from its holster and pointed it at another officer while in a briefing room. The statement did not specify if the firearm was loaded.
Debiase was placed on administrative leave immediately after the incident. Investigations were conducted by both the Myrtle Beach Police Department’s Office of Professional Standards and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Investigations identified several policy breaches by Debiase.
The department emphasized its commitment to professionalism, integrity, sound judgment, and respect. The statement added:
“This incident does not reflect the values demonstrated by the men and women of the Myrtle Beach Police Department every day. However, it does show our commitment to accountability and our willingness to address conduct that falls short of our expectations.”
The Myrtle Beach Police Department stressed the importance of maintaining community trust by holding employees accountable and ensuring they uphold high standards.
In South Carolina, pointing a firearm at someone is a felony that may result in either a fine or up to five years in prison, determined by the court.
Debiase was processed at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center in Horry County and released a few hours later. Court records show no bail was set. Debiase is expected to appear in court on August 14.
A representative from the Myrtle Beach Police Department did not immediately respond to requests for further comment.
Brittany Miller, a Breaking News Writer for Fox News Digital, reported this story. For news tips, email [email protected] or reach out to @BrittMillerFox on X.