MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — A former Myrtle Beach Police Department detective has been arrested and terminated from his position after authorities say he pointed a department-issued handgun at a fellow officer during a dispute over microwaved fish inside the police station.
According to investigators, 46-year-old Michael DeBiase was charged with pointing and presenting a firearm at a person, a felony offense under South Carolina law. The charge stems from an incident that allegedly occurred inside the Myrtle Beach Police Department’s briefing room.
Authorities said the confrontation began after another officer heated fish in a microwave, creating an odor in the office. Investigators allege that during the disagreement, DeBiase removed his department-issued firearm from its holster and pointed it at the other officer.
The Myrtle Beach Police Department immediately placed DeBiase on administrative leave while an internal investigation and a separate investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) were conducted.
Following those investigations, the department announced that DeBiase’s employment had been terminated. Officials stated that the incident violated departmental standards and did not reflect the professionalism expected of officers.
In a public statement, the department emphasized its commitment to accountability and maintaining public trust, adding that employees are expected to demonstrate sound judgment, integrity, and respect for others.
DeBiase was booked into the J. Reuben Long Detention Center in Horry County and later released. Court records indicate that his next scheduled court appearance is set for August.
Under South Carolina law, a conviction for pointing and presenting a firearm at another person can carry significant penalties, including a potential prison sentence.
The case remains under review, and no plea had been publicly reported as of Wednesday. As with all criminal proceedings, the charge against DeBiase is an allegation, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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