NC H960

Authorizes local police departments and county sheriffs to establish citizens academies that educate community members on law enforcement operations and prepare them to volunteer for the department.

Requires academy curriculum to include instruction on recognizing suspicious criminal activity, terrorism threats, de-escalation, mental health crisis response, and diversity and equity training.

Permits departments to conduct background checks on applicants and exclude those with prior criminal convictions, pending charges, or dishonorable military discharges.

Allows academy graduates to volunteer in community patrols and observational activities; armed volunteers must complete basic law enforcement training and receive written authorization from the police chief or sheriff.

Establishes findings that "see something, say something" programs reduce violence by training citizens to recognize and report danger signs of illegal or potentially violent activities.