NC S722

Authorizes local police departments and county police departments to establish citizens academies that educate community members on law enforcement operations and train volunteers to recognize and report suspicious activity related to criminal behavior, terrorism, or violence.

Requires background checks on all academy participants and excludes individuals with prior criminal convictions, pending criminal charges, or investigations; veterans must have received an honorable discharge to participate.

Permits graduates of citizens academies to provide volunteer services including community patrols and observational activities to support law enforcement operations and increase community safety.

Prohibits armed volunteer services unless the volunteer has completed a basic law enforcement training course and received written authorization from the police chief or sheriff sponsoring the program.

Applies identical provisions to both municipal police departments and county sheriff's departments through amendments to separate sections of the North Carolina General Statutes.