No one was injured, except workplace morale
By BC News Staff Writer
A Myrtle Beach police detective has been fired and charged after investigators say he pulled his department‑issued firearm on a fellow officer during an argument sparked by someone warming up fish in the station microwave.
According to arrest documents, the confrontation unfolded inside the Myrtle Beach Police Department’s briefing room on June 2, where officers were preparing for shift change.
The smell of reheated fish reportedly triggered a verbal dispute between Detective Michael DeBiase, 46, and another officer. The argument escalated when DeBiase allegedly drew his handgun and pointed it at the colleague.
No shots were fired, and no injuries were reported.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) was called in to investigate. DeBiase was arrested and charged with pointing and presenting a firearm, a felony in South Carolina that carries a potential sentence of up to five years.
He was booked into the J. Reuben Long Detention Center and later released on bond.
The Myrtle Beach Police Department confirmed DeBiase has been terminated, citing violations of department policy uncovered during both internal and external investigations.
“This behavior is unacceptable and does not reflect the standards of our agency,” the department said in a statement.
The officer who warmed the fish was not injured and has not been publicly identified. The microwave has also not been charged.
DeBiase’s next court appearance is scheduled for August 14.
Everyone is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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