South Carolina Detective Arrested for Allegedly Threatening Fellow Officer with Firearm

In a troubling incident, a detective from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was dismissed and arrested for allegedly threatening a fellow police officer with his department-issued firearm. According to reports, the confrontation began over a disagreement involving a communal microwave being used for fish preparation.

Michael Debiase, aged 46, who until recently served as a detective with the Myrtle Beach Police Department, faced arrest on June 2. He is charged with pointing and presenting a firearm at another officer, a serious offense under South Carolina law.

A report from the New York Post pointed to an arrest warrant, indicating that the incident arose when Debiase expressed anger about the other officer’s use of a microwave for cooking fish.

The Myrtle Beach Police Department stated they have terminated Debiase’s employment following a thorough internal inquiry into the event.

The department shared a statement on Facebook, detailing that Debiase was found to have “removed his department-issued firearm from its holster in the PD briefing room, aiming it at another officer.” Details about the firearm’s load status were not disclosed.

Debiase was immediately placed on administrative leave while the Myrtle Beach Police and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division carried out investigations. The department’s Office of Professional Standards identified several breaches in policy.

The Myrtle Beach Police emphasized their commitment to “professionalism, integrity, sound judgment, and respect for others.” They recognized that this incident does not represent the consistent values upheld by police personnel.

In the statement, the department reiterated their dedication to accountability, asserting the importance of addressing behavior that falls below expected standards.

Under South Carolina legislation, pointing a firearm at another person is a felony that can lead to a fine set by the court, or a prison term extending to five years.

Court records show Debiase was processed at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center in Horry County. He was released within several hours with no bail specified.

Debiase’s court appearance is scheduled for August 14.