It’s a jolt of reality inside the training room — Park Police officers and reservists bracing themselves for the sting of a taser. A five-second shock that drops even the strongest officer — that’s how taser training ends. Park Police reservists and officers here aren’t just learning how to use the weapon… they’re learning what it feels like to be on the other end.

Officer Joseph Gabutin, Jr. is with Park Police, and said, "Moreso for the officers to have this experience they able to testify on the effects on the subjects in case they have to use it."

You can’t carry this tool unless you know the pain it delivers. This way, you’ll think twice before ever pulling the trigger. "They did good. A lot of them handled the exposure really well. I found it pretty interesting on the government as well," he said.

The idea is simple — respect the weapon, respect the suspect. By taking the hit, officers gain perspective and restraint. Sgt. Dave Untalan is with Park Police, noting, "The taser 7 Energy Weapon is  a non-lethal weapon that the officers can use as part of their tools when they go out to the public and have to resort to less than lethal force. So this training helped them better understand the use of the weapon , the safety features and the pros of having the weapon on your tool belt for when they go out on patrol. "

For some, the shock is unforgettable. But for all, it’s a reminder — the taser is power in their hands… and accountability on their shoulders. "Prior to the usage or deployment of the taser, we always go through the use of force, where we respond to a call , arrive at the scene. The officer presence, then we give verbal commands, there is always steps that we take to de-escalate the situation with control and compliance. So if officers are responding to you, there is a reason why they're there. Give them the benefit of the doubt - the same way we do to everybody we respond to. Just comply, answer questions, the weapon is used for non-compliant subjects," he said.

From the classroom to the current — officers leave knowing the sting of the taser, and the responsibility that comes with it. According to Untalan, about 14 have taken and completed the training.