The Takoma Park Police Department has issued a community safety alert regarding a new “door-kicking challenge” circulating on social media. The TikTok trend encourages people to kick in doors at homes and businesses and poses a significant risk to property and personal safety.
Reports show the trend is going on across the country. In Maryland, this is a misdemeanor under Maryland Statute §6-301 and is commonly referred to as “Malicious Destruction of Property.”
Penalties range from 60 days in jail and a fine up to $500 to three years in jail and a fine up to $2,500.
The Takoma Park Police Department is urging residents to report suspicious activity, secure doors and windows, talk to children about the dangers of these challenges and share this information with neighbors.
