Florida Teenagers Detained for Taking Part in Trending Door Kick Challenge

Three teenagers in Florida were taken into custody after pushing a viral social media trend too far. Authorities reported the arrests occurred on November 23 following the teens involvement in a so-called door kick challenge.

The TikTok craze involves participants aggressively kicking or banging on random residential doors, often late at night, and then fleeing the scene. The St. Johns County Sheriffs Office confirmed that the arrest was prompted by a call from a resident on Sweetbrier Branch Lane, who reported that someone was attempting to force their door open.

In an audio recording of the emergency call obtained by Good Morning America, the homeowner stated that the teens were unarmed, but mentioned that her husband was prepared to open the door with a firearm.

An officer is heard in video footage from that night asking the teens, You guys want to get shot by a homeowner when you're kicking their door, and they think you're breaking in?

The sheriffs office revealed that the teenagers visited multiple homes in the neighborhood, actions that were captured on surveillance cameras. Charges include loitering and prowling for all three teens, with one also facing criminal mischief for property damage.

Authorities emphasized the serious danger of the trend. This challenge is not a harmless prank, the sheriffs office told WFLA News Channel 8. As you heard in the audio, the residents were armed, waiting at the door to protect themselves. Engaging in this behavior can have severe and potentially life-altering consequences.

Author: Sophia Brooks