MYRTLE BEACH, South Carolina — A bizarre workplace dispute inside a South Carolina police department has resulted in the arrest and termination of veteran detective Michael DeBiase, who authorities say allegedly pointed his department-issued firearm at a fellow officer during an argument over microwaved fish.
The incident, which occurred inside the Myrtle Beach Police Department, has drawn national attention because of the unusual circumstances surrounding the confrontation. According to investigators, what began as a disagreement over the odor of fish being heated in a communal microwave escalated into a criminal case that ultimately cost DeBiase his law enforcement career.
Detective Arrested and Fired Following Internal Investigation
Michael DeBiase, 46, a detective with the Myrtle Beach Police Department, was arrested on June 2, 2026, and charged with Pointing and Presenting a Firearm at a Person, a felony offense under South Carolina law. The charge followed an investigation requested by the Myrtle Beach Police Department and conducted by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
According to SLED, DeBiase was booked into the J. Reuben Long Detention Center in Horry County after the charge was filed. Authorities confirmed that the investigation stemmed from an incident involving another officer inside police headquarters.
The Myrtle Beach Police Department subsequently announced that it had ended DeBiase’s employment after an internal review identified multiple policy violations related to the incident.
What Happened?
According to arrest warrants and investigative documents, the confrontation allegedly began when another officer used a microwave at the police department to warm fish, creating what investigators described as an odor in the office. Authorities allege that DeBiase confronted the officer regarding the smell.
Investigators say the disagreement escalated dramatically when DeBiase allegedly removed his department-issued handgun and pointed it at the fellow officer. The incident reportedly occurred inside a briefing room at the police department. No shots were fired, and no injuries were reported.
Both officers reportedly provided statements during the investigation. The identity of the officer involved in the confrontation has not been publicly released.
Department Responds
The Myrtle Beach Police Department stated that DeBiase was immediately placed on administrative leave after the incident while both internal and state investigations were conducted. Following the completion of the department’s review, officials announced that DeBiase was no longer employed by the agency.
In a public statement, department leaders emphasized that the alleged conduct did not reflect the professionalism expected of Myrtle Beach police officers and highlighted the agency’s commitment to accountability. Officials stated that officers are entrusted with significant responsibility and are expected to demonstrate sound judgment, integrity, professionalism, and respect for others.
The department also noted that the case demonstrated its willingness to address conduct that falls below departmental standards, regardless of rank or position.
Criminal Charge Carries Serious Consequences
Under South Carolina law, pointing a firearm at another person—whether loaded or unloaded—is a criminal offense. The felony charge DeBiase faces carries potential penalties that may include a fine and imprisonment if convicted. Authorities have not indicated whether the firearm involved in the incident was loaded at the time.
Court records indicate that DeBiase was released following his arrest. His next court appearance is scheduled for August 14, 2026. As of the latest reports, no attorney information had been publicly listed in court filings.
SLED Leading Investigation
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division confirmed that it became involved after receiving a request from the Myrtle Beach Police Department to conduct an independent investigation into the matter. SLED subsequently gathered evidence, reviewed statements, and filed the criminal charge against the former detective.
The investigation remains active, and authorities have not released additional details regarding the full sequence of events inside the police department on the day of the incident.
Public Reaction
The unusual nature of the allegations has generated widespread discussion online and across news outlets nationwide. Many observers expressed disbelief that a disagreement reportedly triggered by microwaved fish could escalate into a confrontation involving a firearm inside a police facility. Others pointed to the incident as an example of the importance of professional conduct and accountability within law enforcement agencies.
While the allegations remain subject to the legal process, the case has already resulted in significant professional consequences for DeBiase, whose law enforcement career with the Myrtle Beach Police Department has come to an abrupt end.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
As the criminal case moves forward, investigators and prosecutors will continue reviewing evidence related to the confrontation. DeBiase remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
The case has become one of the most unusual law enforcement disciplinary incidents to emerge from South Carolina in recent years, drawing attention not only because of the serious allegations but also because of the seemingly minor workplace dispute that allegedly preceded them. For now, the former detective faces a felony charge, a pending court date, and continued public scrutiny as legal proceedings unfold.