Teenagers as young as 13 now face felony burglary charges for kicking in strangers’ doors in a reckless TikTok “Door Kick Challenge,” turning childish pranks into serious crimes that endanger families and homeowners.
Felony Charges for Florida Teens
In DeBary, Florida, two teenagers aged 15 and 13 kicked a neighbor’s front door with enough force to cause damage. Volusia County Sheriff’s Office arrested them on felony burglary charges in July 2025.
The 15-year-old admitted to deputies that they were “just being stupid.” This incident marks the escalation of the trend from harmless fun to criminal liability. Homeowners now face repair costs and fear, while young offenders risk lifelong consequences from one viral video.
The Tik Tok Door Kick Challenge is way too dangerous. Parents, tell your kids to stop before someone gets hurt. Houston already saw an 11 yr old boy killed in Aug. while playing Ding Dong Ditch. This happened in The Heights neighborhood. Let’s stay safe. #hounews pic.twitter.com/ucsRracHVx
— Office of Harris County Constable Pct 1 Alan Rosen (@Pct1Constable) January 15, 2026
National Spread and Police Warnings
The Door Kick Challenge will have hit California, Washington, Florida, and Texas by January 2026. The Murrieta Police Department in California labeled it vandalism that escalates to criminal charges, injuries, or worse. Merriam Police in Kansas warned parents and homeowners of the dangerous TikTok trend. Multiple arrests confirm law enforcement’s firm response across states. Platforms like TikTok fuel this by rewarding risky behavior with views and likes, prioritizing engagement over safety.
On January 12, a hooded youth in Houston’s Heights neighborhood kicked open a front door, recorded by accomplices. Harris County Constable Alan Rosen called it “incredibly dangerous,” noting groups in hoodies mimic home invasions. Deputies continue searching for suspects, heightening community vigilance.
Dangers on Both Sides of the Door
Sergeant Kristin Jasinski of Merriam Police stressed risks for all: homeowners startled into self-defense and pranksters facing retaliation. A prior ding-dong ditch incident ended with a child shot, underscoring the deadly potential. Kicks damage door frames, costing hundreds in repairs and eroding neighborhood security. Conservatives value strong families and property rights; these intrusions violate those values, demanding parental accountability rather than excuses.
Long-Term Consequences and Parental Role
Felony convictions burden teens with records that harm future jobs, education, and housing. Prosecutors set precedents to deter viral stupidity. Law enforcement pushes parents to discuss the deadly outcomes of “silly” challenges. In Trump’s America, where law and order prevail, communities reject social media’s lure toward crime. Home security demand rises as families protect what’s theirs amid eroding personal responsibility.
Sources:
TikTok “Door Kicking Challenge” leads to felony charges for two teens
California police warn of Door Kick TikTok challenge
Teens’ viral prank targeting homeowners could have deadly consequences, police warn
Viral Door Kick TikTok challenge raises concerns in Houston
Viral door kick challenge sparks safety concerns in Heights neighborhood