A Myrtle Beach police detective was arrested and fired after allegedly pointing his department-issued firearm at a colleague over microwaving fish [1, 2].
The incident highlights a severe escalation of workplace conflict within a law enforcement agency, where the use of a lethal weapon occurred over a mundane office dispute.
Michael DeBiase, 46 [5], was arrested May 30, 2024 [4], following the confrontation at the Myrtle Beach Police Department headquarters in South Carolina [1, 5]. The dispute centered on a fellow officer using the station's microwave to heat fish for lunch in the briefing-room, and breakroom area [1, 5].
Reports said DeBiase pointed his service weapon at the other officer during the disagreement [2, 3]. The department subsequently took action against the detective. While some reports indicate he was arrested and fired immediately [4], others said he was first placed on leave before being fired [5].
DeBiase faces charges for pointing a firearm at another person. The incident took place within the secure environment of the police station, where officers are expected to maintain professional conduct and firearm safety protocols [1, 3].
Local authorities have not released further details regarding the condition of the officer targeted, or if any other personnel were present during the altercation [1, 4]. The Myrtle Beach Police Department has not issued a formal statement regarding the internal disciplinary process beyond the confirmation of the arrest and termination [2, 3].
“A Myrtle Beach police detective was arrested and fired after allegedly pointing his department-issued firearm at a colleague over microwaving fish”
This incident represents a significant breach of police protocol and firearm safety. The transition from a workplace grievance regarding food odors to a felony-level threat suggests a critical failure in conflict resolution and emotional regulation within the department's internal culture.
