MYRTLE BEACH — A former Myrtle Beach police detective has been arrested after he allegedly pulled a gun on another officer for heating up fish in a microwave and causing the office to stink, authorities said.
Michael Debiase, 46, was charged June 2 with pointing and presenting a firearm at a person, according to a news release from the State Law Enforcement Division.
Debiase was arrested after the MBPD ended his employment, citing several state and city policy violations.
“The Myrtle Beach Police Department takes violations of policy and professional standards seriously,” according to a June 2 statement from the department. “We remain committed to maintaining the trust of our community by holding our employees accountable and ensuring they uphold the high standards expected of those who serve the City of Myrtle Beach.”
Debiase was at the police station on North Oak Street on May 30 when he confronted a patrolman over that officer “warming up fish in the office microwave and causing an odor in the office,” according to an arrest warrant. Debiase then allegedly pulled his department-issued firearm on the officer.
Myrtle Beach police asked for the investigation into Debiase’s conduct, according to SLED.
“Our employees are entrusted with significant responsibility, and with that comes an expectation of professionalism, integrity, sound judgment, and respect for others,” MBPD wrote in its statement. “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.”
Debiase was booked at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center and he posted a $5,000 cash surety bond, according to court records. His case will be prosecuted by the 15th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.