Staffordshire Police have issued a warning after a viral TikTok trend known as the door-kicking challenge reached the Midlands, with teenagers reportedly kicking or banging on residential doors late at night while filming the acts for social media.
Officers received numerous reports of doors being "forcefully kicked" in the Castletown and Trinity Fields areas of Stafford on Monday, October 12. The incidents began at around 7pm on Craddock Road and Sayers Road, followed by further reports from Castle Street at approximately 7.25pm.
Police urge residents to stay alert
A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police said: "We are urging our community to stay alert to a dangerous social media trend known as the door-kicking challenge."
"This viral TikTok trend involves individuals - often teenagers - kicking or banging on doors late at night or in the early hours, filming the act for social media. Please speak with your children about the risks and consequences of participating in trends like this."
The spokesperson added: "What may seem like a prank can cause real harm, fear, and long-term impact - especially for vulnerable individuals and families. I will be liaising with the schools to identify those involved."
Appeal for witnesses and CCTV footage
Members of the public who witnessed the incidents, or those who have CCTV footage, have been asked to contact Staffordshire Police on 101 or through the force's website. The warning follows a similar incident in Smethwick, where a teenager was shot 15 minutes after rival groups clashed in street disorder, though no direct link has been established.
The police spokesperson emphasised the potential long-term effects of the trend, particularly on vulnerable individuals and families, and stressed the importance of parental awareness in preventing further incidents.
