NC S534

Law enforcement officers who observe another officer use excessive force must attempt to intervene if safe to do so, and report the conduct to a superior within 72 hours.

Officers reporting excessive force are protected from termination, discipline, or retaliation, except for disciplinary action related to their own prior conduct.

Criminal justice officers and justice officers must report violations of law, fraud, misappropriation of resources, activities posing danger to public health and safety, and gross mismanagement within 72 hours to appropriate supervisors.

Officers making reports under these provisions receive the same retaliation protections as law enforcement officers, with knowingly false reports classified as Class 2 misdemeanors.

The bill becomes effective December 1, 2023, and applies to offenses committed and retaliatory actions taken on or after that date.