Hollywood’s ‘Scientology Speed Run’ Trend Sparks Safety Worries
Viral ‘Scientology Speed Run’ Trend Sparks Safety Concerns in Hollywood
LOS ANGELES – A new social media trend, gaining traction on TikTok, has drawn attention to safety issues in Hollywood. The phenomenon involves groups of individuals racing into Scientology buildings on Hollywood Boulevard, only to exit shortly afterward. These videos, some racking up millions of views, usually feature participants who are masked and refer to the activity as a "Scientology speed run."
Participants describe the experience as thrilling yet risky. "You never know what could happen. Part of us are scared we’re going to get trapped in there," one individual stated. Another participant dismissed accusations that the activity constitutes a hate crime, asserting, "You cannot charge anyone with a hate crime if they’re not doing anything. We’re not yelling racial slurs; we’re not yelling anything."
The Church of Scientology has condemned this behavior, labeling it dangerous and disruptive. A spokesperson indicated that some individuals have "repeatedly forced their way" into properties, causing damage and endangering staff and visitors. "Staff members were knocked down in the chaos," the statement revealed.
The church emphasizes that while it welcomes lawful visitors, it does not accept behaviors that involve forced entry or disrupt the sanctity of its spaces. Locations targeted include the L. Ron Hubbard Life Exhibition and the Public Information Center, both intended for open visitation but not for disruptive acts.
Community members have also voiced their concerns. During a recent meeting of the Los Angeles Board of Police Commissioners, one speaker warned, "I’m worried about these kids getting killed. … Vigilante justice is not a good idea."
In response to these alarming occurrences, the Church of Scientology has stepped up security measures, adjusting access points to its buildings, while the police are actively investigating the situation. Shortly after a FOX 11 interview with participants, law enforcement arrived at one of the sites, though it remains unclear if their presence was directly related to the interview. No arrests have been reported as of now.
Despite increased scrutiny, some participants express their intent to continue the trend. "I feel more than half … agree with us … we’re going to keep doing what we want to do," one participant said, while another downplayed the legal risks involved: "Honestly, there’s nothing they can really do, besides a trespass. The doors are open."
Officials caution that as the trend continues to spread online, the potential for real-world consequences may escalate.
