A Myrtle Beach police detective has been dismissed from his position and is confronting a federal felony charge after an altercation allegedly stemming from the pungent aroma of microwaved seafood in the station's break room.
Incident Overview
Michael Debiase, 46, a former detective with the Myrtle Beach Police Department (MBPD), is accused of drawing his service weapon on a fellow officer during a confrontation on Saturday. The dispute reportedly originated from the strong odor of reheated fish that permeated the office lunchroom.
Employment Termination and Charges
Officials from the MBPD, located approximately 95 miles northeast of Charleston, confirmed that they had 'separated employment' with Debiase. He now faces a charge of Pointing and Presenting a Firearm. According to the department's press release, 'The alleged incident involved Debiase removing his department-issued firearm from its holster while in the PD briefing room.'
Following the incident, Debiase was immediately placed on administrative leave while investigations were conducted by the MBPD's Office of Professional Standards and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). The internal probe identified multiple policy violations.
Legal Proceedings
Debiase was booked into the J. Reuben Long Detention Center in Horry County on Tuesday and subsequently released without bail, according to public records. Legal information website Justia notes that a conviction for Pointing and Presenting a Firearm carries a penalty of up to five years in prison or a fine.
The arrest warrant specifies that the case will be prosecuted by the 15th Circuit Solicitor's Office. Court documents reviewed by the New York Post indicate that his next court appearance is scheduled for August 14.
Department Response
In a statement, MBPD officials emphasized that '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 reiterated its dedication to maintaining community trust by holding employees accountable and upholding high standards. The Daily Mail has contacted SLED and MBPD for further comment.
