TikTok Users Enter Scientology Buildings in 'Speed Running' Trend, Church Calls for Police Action

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:49:00 +0200

In Los Angeles, a TikTok trend known as 'speed running' has seen teenagers sprinting through multiple Church of Scientology buildings on Hollywood Boulevard. Videos showing people dressed as characters such as Jesus and Sonic the Hedgehog dodging security guards have gone viral, sparking debates about legality and safety. The Church of Scientology has condemned these actions as organized trespasses and 'hate crimes,' citing property damage and endangerment of staff and visitors. The Los Angeles Police Department reported five trespassing incidents this year at Scientology properties, but only two resembled the so-called speed runs, with no arrests or injuries reported. Some former Scientologists and anti-Scientology activists view these runs as a form of protest or a means to raise awareness about the church's controversial practices. However, experts warn that invading religious buildings could have legal consequences, including battery charges, and question whether similar actions wo