The new TikTok door-kicking challenge is a dangerous and destructive trend that should not be attempted, and one sheriff in Florida offers a stark warning.
Around 9:30 p.m. on Monday, April 17, 2023, a door to a home in the 5000 block of Shadyglen Drive in Lakeland was kicked in and damaged.
Video surveillance shows seven people, possibly juveniles, walking down the road with flashlights.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office would like to identify these seven individuals.
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“Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd would like to remind everyone who might be entertaining thoughts of pranking or doing a ‘TikTok Challenge’ regarding kicking in doors that people here tend to be armed and may respond accordingly if they are home when their door is kicked in,” said Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
The TikTok door-kicking challenge is a dangerous and destructive trend that has been gaining popularity on the social media platform. In the challenge, participants kick in doors to the beat of a song, often Kesha’s “Die Young.”
The challenge has been linked to a number of injuries and property damage, and law enforcement officials have condemned it.
The challenge is thought to have originated in college dorms, but it has since spread to other areas, including neighborhoods. In some cases, participants have kicked in the wrong door, leading to confrontations with homeowners. In other cases, participants have been injured when the door has been kicked back at them.
In addition to the physical dangers, the challenge also raises concerns about privacy and safety. When participants kick in a door, they are essentially trespassing on someone else’s property. This can lead to confrontations with homeowners, and it can also put participants at risk of being arrested or worse.
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The TikTok door-kicking challenge is a dangerous and destructive trend that should not be attempted. If you see someone participating in the challenge, please report it to the authorities.thumb_upthumb_downrefresh
If you recognize the people pictured, please contact Detective Colletti at 863-577-1600 or at ccolletti@polksheriff.org.
If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Heartland Crime Stoppers in one of four ways:
• CALL 1-800-226 TIPS (8477)
• DIAL **TIPS from your cell phone
• VISIT www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on “Submit A Tip,”
• DOWNLOAD the free “P3tips” app on your smartphone or tablet.
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