A viral trend known as 'speed runs' has emerged where individuals rush into the Church of Scientology's Hollywood buildings, prompting legal action and public debate.
Key Takeaways
A viral trend known as 'speed runs' has emerged where individuals rush into the Church of Scientology's Hollywood buildings, prompting legal action and public debate. According to multiple reports: - Participants film their trespassing attempts for social media views. - The church has reported incidents to law enforcement and taken additional security measures. - No arrests have been made despite five trespassing reports filed with LAPD. - Critics argue the trend could backfire by reinforcing Scientology's beliefs.
The so-called 'speed runs' appear to be bids for social media valor—clips of the raids have amassed millions of views on TikTok—as much as they are an outgrowth of public intrigue surrounding the church. According to multiple reports, participants film their trespassing attempts, treating different floors and rooms like levels to be unlocked in a video game.
The Church of Scientology issued a statement about a 'large-scale incident' on Saturday during which dozens of individuals forced their way into its facilities, knocking down staff members. The church called the trend 'organized trespasses' and said it is reviewing all available remedies and has made reports to law enforcement.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has received five trespassing reports tied to Scientology Hollywood properties this year. Authorities said no arrests have been made, but after Saturday's incident, LAPD Major Crimes detectives were assigned to investigate the matter as an alleged hate crime. The church has taken additional security measures, including removing door handles from its buildings.
The trend has also divided prominent former Scientologists who oppose the organization. Actress Leah Remini warned that the trend could backfire by reinforcing Scientology's beliefs and pushing members further into the religion.
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