Full Breakdown
Myrtle Beach Detective Arrested After Pointing Firearm at Fellow Officer Over Microwaved Fish
6/7/2026, 11:54:31 PM
Incident Overview
On June 2, 2024, Michael Debiase, a 46-year-old detective with the Myrtle Beach Police Department in South Carolina, was arrested and fired after allegedly removing his department-issued firearm from its holster and pointing it at a fellow officer in the department’s briefing room. Police reports say the dispute began when the other officer microwaved fish, upsetting Debiase.
Chronology of Key Events
June 2 2024 – Debiase was booked at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center, released hours later without bail, and placed on administrative leave. August 14 2024 – He is due in court.
Legal Context and Penalties
South Carolina law defines pointing a firearm at another person as a felony, punishable by a fine and up to five years in prison. Debiase faces a charge of presenting a firearm.
Departmental Response
The Myrtle Beach Police Department issued a statement affirming its commitment to professionalism, integrity and accountability. It noted Debiase’s immediate administrative leave, investigations by the Office of Professional Standards and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and identification of several policy violations.
Dissenting Views and Lack of Comment
Critics stress the gravity of a firearm being brandished in a police facility; the department declined comment.
Unresolved Details and Information Gaps
The statement did not reveal whether the gun was loaded. Court records show no bail, but give no details on the other officer or the fish dispute.
Direct Statements from Officials
> “He was placed on administrative leave immediately following the incident while investigations were conducted by the Myrtle Beach Police Department's Office of Professional Standards and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.” — Myrtle Beach Police Department statement
> “This incident does not reflect the values demonstrated by the men and women of the Myrtle Beach Police Department every day. However, it does demonstrate our commitment to accountability and our willingness to address conduct that falls short of our expectations.” — Myrtle Beach Police Department statement
> “Based on information learned during the Office of Professional Standards investigation, several policy violations were identified.” — Myrtle Beach Police Department statement
> “The Myrtle Beach Police Department takes violations of policy and professional standards seriously. We remain committed to maintaining the trust of our community by holding our employees accountable and ensuring they uphold the high standards expected of those who serve the City of Myrtle Beach.” — Myrtle Beach Police Department statement
Upcoming Court Appearance
Debiase is slated to appear before a Horry County court on August 14, 2024.
