Crime & Safety
TikTok Challenge Prompts Warning From Cape Cod Police
The challenge isn't new, but area police are joining others in calls to try to prevent it from happening locally.
DENNIS, MA — A police department on Cape Cod is urging residents — specifically minors — to stop from engaging in a popular TikTok challenge.
Dennis police have issued a warning about what they called the "Door Kicking" challenge, which is, essentially, exactly what it seems.
"We’ve become aware of a dangerous social media 'prank' circulating nationwide where kids are running up to homes and kicking in doors," Dennis police said.
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"This is NOT harmless fun — it causes property damage, frightens residents, and can put participants at serious risk," they added.
Officials also urged parents to talk to their kids about the challenge, noting that the behavior can result in arrest.
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"On Cape Cod, homeowners may reasonably believe their home is being broken into and could respond in ways that endanger those involved," police said.
The trend isn't new, by any means.
The City of Eureka, California, issued a news release on the "Dangers of TikTok Door Kicking Challenge " in April 2024 after three teenagers kicked and pounded on the door of a residential home.
News reports from Philadelphia indicate that homes suffered damage from the same trend as early as July 2023.
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