RUTLAND, Vt. (AP) – Vermont State Police have a new tool to control violent offenders.

About 15 officers are now trained to carry Taser stun guns.

The Taser guns send an electrical charge that causes a person to temporarily lose muscle control and fall to the ground.

Officials say the devices allow troopers to stop offenders without the use of deadly force and with less risk to the officers.

Several police departments across the country, especially in the West, have Tasers as part of their arsenals.

“I feel lucky that I have another tool at my disposal,” Campagne said.

As part of the training, Campaign was hit with the 5-second dose of 50,000 volts.

“It was the most excruciating pain I’ve ever experienced,” the trooper said, adding that he was rapidly back on his feet and able to recover. “It’s very quick.”

Campagne and Lynn are part the State Police tactical support unit – the SWAT team. The team is made up of up to 15 troopers from across the state who all recently received training in Taser technology.

“It’s another tool for the troopers,” said Lt. Donald Patch, who oversees the Rutland barracks.

Patch and Campagne said they were one of a couple of local police departments in the state using Tasers.