Church of Scientology Falls Victim to New TikTok Trend
Newser • • entertainment
Key Points:
- A TikTok trend called "Scientology speed running" involves young people rushing through Church of Scientology sites in Hollywood, filming themselves while ignoring staff and security warnings.
- The Church of Scientology condemns the trend as trespassing and harassment, citing incidents of property damage and risks posed to parishioners and visitors.
- Los Angeles police have increased patrols near Scientology locations and are investigating some cases as potential hate crimes, with suspects wanted for burglary and felony vandalism after a large incident at the L. Ron Hubbard Life Exhibition.
- The trend's originator, an 18-year-old TikTok user named "Swhileyy," has urged others to stop copying the stunt, and former Scientologist Leah Remini has also called for an end, warning it may reinforce the church's secretive image.
