Scientology Removes Door Handles After Intrusions

The Church of Scientology has removed door handles from entrances at its Hollywood Boulevard properties in Los Angeles after a viral social media trend prompted repeated intrusions by groups of young people racing through its buildings. The disruptions, known as "speedrunning," peaked last Saturday when dozens forced their way into the L. Ron Hubbard Life Exhibition, prompting police investigations into possible hate crimes.

Participants, often filming for TikTok and Instagram, have sprinted past security guards and parishioners to test how far they can penetrate the facilities before being escorted out. Videos of the challenges, some amassing millions of views, show groups yanking open doors, with some individuals wearing costumes such as Jesus or a hot dog. The church described these actions as trespassing, harassment, and disruption of religious facilities. "Over recent weeks, individuals have repeatedly forced their way into Church properties on Hollywood Boulevard, disrupted religious and public facilities, damaged Church property, and endangered staff, parishioners and visitors," the organization stated. It added that staff members were knocked down during Saturday's...