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Door-Kick Challenge Proliferates Across US as Arrests and Property Damage Mount

Experts warn the pursuit of social media clout has desensitized teens to violence, increasing the risk of deadly homeowner retaliation.

Door-kick challenge is a good way to end up dead, said Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood of Florida in a warning to citizens.
Two teens in Volusia County were caught by authorities after they kicked a homeowner’s door (Photo: Volusia County Sheriff's Office)

Overview

  • Law enforcement agencies in at least seven states, including California, Florida and Nevada, have reported aggressive door-kick incidents targeting random homes.
  • Two teenagers in DeBary, Florida, were arrested on felony burglary charges after forcefully kicking a homeowner’s door off its hinges.
  • A July 8 incident in Las Vegas left a homeowner with $5,000 in damages after pranksters kicked in his door at 3 a.m.
  • Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood warns that under the Castle doctrine homeowners may use deadly force against perceived intruders.
  • Online safety experts advocate open dialogue and parental monitoring tools to deter teens from chasing viral clout with dangerous pranks.