A detective in South Carolina faced arrest and termination after allegedly pointing his firearm at a colleague in a police station. The incident reportedly occurred following a disagreement over another officer using a communal microwave for fish.

Michael Debiase, age 46, who served with the Myrtle Beach Police Department, was detained on June 2. He was charged with pointing and presenting a firearm at a person. Allegedly, Debiase’s actions stemmed from frustration over a colleague microwaving fish in the police station.

The Myrtle Beach Police Department confirmed the termination of Debiase after conducting an internal investigation. According to a statement posted on their Facebook page, the incident involved Debiase removing his firearm from its holster while in the police briefing room and pointing it at another officer.

The police did not clarify whether the firearm was loaded. Following the incident, Debiase was placed on administrative leave while investigations proceeded, handled by the department’s Office of Professional Standards and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. The investigation revealed multiple policy violations.

“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,” the department stated.

The department emphasized its commitment to professionalism, integrity, judgment, and respect. It assured the community of their dedication to maintaining trust and holding employees accountable for behavior contrary to their standards. Under South Carolina law, pointing a firearm at someone constitutes a felony, with potential penalties of a fine or up to five years in prison.

Records show Debiase was detained at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center in Horry County and released hours later without bail. He is required to appear in court on August 14.