A Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, police detective has been fired and now faces a felony charge after he allegedly pointed his department-issued firearm at a fellow officer who was heating fish in a breakroom microwave. The incident, which occurred May 30, resulted in the arrest of Michael Debiase, 46, three days later on June 2.
What Happened in the Breakroom
According to authorities, Debiase approached a colleague in the Myrtle Beach Police Department breakroom and confronted him about the smell coming from the microwave. The confrontation escalated to the point where Debiase drew his service weapon and pointed it at the other officer. Both officers subsequently provided statements to investigators. The identity of the officer who had been microwaving the fish was not disclosed in court documents.
Debiase was placed on administrative leave while the department launched an internal review. The Office of Professional Standards and the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division, known as SLED, took the lead on investigating the incident.
Arrest, Charges, and Termination
Following the three-day investigation, Debiase was arrested and booked into the Horry County detention center on June 2. He faces a felony charge of pointing and presenting a firearm at a person. Authorities announced the charges the same day as his booking. In addition to the criminal charge, the department terminated his employment.
The Myrtle Beach Police Department addressed the matter publicly, stating that its personnel carry serious obligations that go beyond law enforcement duties. “Our employees are entrusted with significant responsibility, and with that comes an expectation of professionalism, integrity, sound judgment, and respect for others,” the department said in a statement.
What Comes Next
With criminal proceedings now underway, Debiase faces the felony charge in South Carolina court. The SLED investigation remains ongoing, and additional findings could factor into the legal process ahead. No further details about a court date or potential penalties were immediately available. The case underscores the standard of conduct law enforcement agencies hold their officers to — both on and off the active duty floor.
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