Young people are rushing through Church of Scientology facilities in Hollywood as part of a viral “speed-running” trend on TikTok.
The challenge involves participants filming themselves sprinting as far as possible into the buildings before security stops them, treating the spaces like levels in a video game. Videos of the stunts have racked up millions of views online.
Most incidents have targeted properties along Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, including the L. Ron Hubbard Life Exhibition and public information center. The trend began in March and escalated in recent weeks with larger groups forcing entry.
Church officials describe the acts as organized trespassing, harassment and disruption of religious facilities. In one Saturday incident, dozens of individuals rushed a building, knocking down staff members; at least one required medical attention.
The church has removed external door handles from several Hollywood locations, restricted access and increased security while documenting every case for law enforcement. It says the stunts endanger staff, parishioners and visitors and has called some of them hate crimes.
Los Angeles police have received at least five trespassing reports this year related to the properties and are investigating, including some with a potential hate-crime enhancement. No arrests have been reported so far.
The 18-year-old TikTok creator credited with launching the trend has since urged others to stop, saying he never intended to encourage the behavior or target the church.
The Church of Scientology says it welcomes lawful visitors but does not welcome groups turning its peaceful spaces into targets for viral stunts.
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Church officials describe the acts as organized trespassing, harassment and disruption of religious facilities.
Church officials describe the acts as organized trespassing, harassment and disruption of religious facilities.
