Deputies arrested three Florida teens on Nov. 23 in St. Johns County after they attempted the viral “door kick challenge,” where participants aggressively kick or bang on random front doors before running away.
Homeowners reported what they believed was an attempted break-in and warned the teens that they were armed and ready to defend themselves.
The prank, which echoes “ding-dong ditching,” has raised alarms among law enforcement agencies across Florida and the country.
What Is the Viral ‘Door Kick Challenge’?
The “door kick challenge” encourages participants to loudly bang or kick on the doors of random homes and then run off, much like the old “ding-dong ditch” prank.
St. Johns County Sheriff Issues Warning
After the arrests, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office posted a warning on social media about the dangerous trend.
“LET THIS BE A WARNING! This ‘challenge’ is not a harmless prank. As you heard in the audio, the complainants were armed, waiting at the front door to shoot the possible intruder,” the sheriff’s office wrote. “Participating in this criminal act has serious and possibly life-changing consequences.”
The statement urged parents to speak with their kids: “SJSO will not tolerate any participation in these challenges. We are prepared to arrest and charge individuals involved, regardless of age.”
Is ‘Ding-Dong Ditching’ Illegal in Florida?
Yes.
According to the Pumphrey Law Firm, “ding dong ditching” qualifies as criminal trespass under Florida law.
Trespass falls under two categories:
• Trespass in a structure or conveyance (Section 810.08, Florida Statutes), which applies when someone enters or remains in a building or conveyance without permission.
• Trespass on property other than a structure or conveyance (Section 810.09), which covers entering or remaining on other types of property without authorization, license, or invitation.
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