‘Door kick challenge' goes viral—but cops say the TikTok trend could lead to serious injury
In Florida this week, five minors were caught on camera participating in the challenge. Instead of simply knocking and running, footage shows one individual approaching a front door, kicking it repeatedly, then firing an airsoft gun before fleeing the scene, according to Fox News.
Earlier this month in DeBary, near Orlando, two teenagers faced felony burglary charges after taking part in the trend. Doorbell footage captured them sneaking up to a house, forcefully kicking the door until the wood splintered, then running away. When questioned by police, one teen reportedly said they were 'just being dumb,' per the Daily Mail.
Similar incidents have been reported in Pennsylvania, Texas, Louisiana, Michigan, and Georgia. Police departments across these states are warning both teens and their parents about the risks involved in the challenge. Not only is it illegal, but it also raises the risk of violent confrontations between residents and those taking part.
Last month, the Fleetwood Police Department in Pennsylvania issued a warning that 'While 'ding dong ditch' has been a hallmark for decades of kids who were looking to have a little mischievous fun, today's youth have taken things to a more serious level by kicking at doors and ultimately causing damage.'
The Fort Worth Police Department in Texas released a similar statement in May. 'It is imperative that individuals partaking in this trend understand that even if no burglary or theft occur, this behavior is illegal and considered vandalism and can lead to criminal charges. More critically, it can be mistaken as an attempted break-in, potentially prompting dangerous or defensive responses from homeowners,' the department wrote.
Hot off the heels of the recent #ChromebookChallenge, police are urging parents 'to speak with their children about the risks and consequences of participating in trends like this,' emphasizing that 'what may seem like a prank can result in very real trouble and/or danger.'
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