Church of Scientology Falls Victim to New TikTok Trend

A Scientology building on Hollywood Boulevard designed without exterior door handles has become the latest focal point of a viral social media trend that is now drawing the attention of law enforcement. Videos circulating on TikTok show mostly young people running into Church of Scientology locations in Hollywood as if they were navigating levels in a video game, recording themselves while staff and security demand that they leave, according to reports.

The church has strongly criticized the trend, often referred to as “Scientology speed running,” describing it as trespassing and harassment. Officials say participants have forced their way into multiple sites, knocked over staff members, caused property damage, and created safety risks for parishioners and visitors.

Police in Los Angeles say they have increased patrols around Scientology properties and are investigating several incidents. Some cases may be considered hate crimes, depending on what participants said during the events. Authorities are currently seeking at least two suspects connected to a large incident that took place on a Saturday, when dozens of individuals, some wearing costumes and masks, rushed into the L. Ron Hubbard Life Exhibition. Those suspects could face charges including burglary and felony vandalism.

The 18-year-old social media user known as “Swhileyy,” who is credited with starting the trend, said he did not encourage others to copy the behavior and believes it should come to an end. Leah Remini, a former Scientologist and outspoken critic of the church, has also called for the trend to stop, warning that it could reinforce the organization’s already defensive posture toward outsiders.

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