TikTok craze leaving elderly people scared in their own homes
Youngsters in Poundbury, Weymouth and Shaftesbury are filming themselves playing loud music and kicking doors, then running away
A Poundbury councillor has condemned a new TikTok craze that's leaving elderly residents scared in their own homes.
The Heartbeat Challenge involves youngsters playing loud music and then kicking and pounding on people's doors at night.
Police have also responded to incidents in Weymouth and Shaftesbury.
Councillor Susie Hosford had this message for anyone taking part.
"I would ask them just to think beyond their little video they are making for TikTok. It doesn't stay on your side of the door. The impact is on the other side of the door where it can't be seen."
"People are finding it quite disturbing. It's at night when it's dark, and it's pounding the door really hard. So it's really upsetting for anyone in the house."
Dorset Police have been stepping up their patrols in response to the incidents.
The Neighbourhood Policing Team conducted plain clothes patrols in the area of The Great Field and surrounding areas of Poundbury, hoping to catch those responsible.
A spokesperson for Dorchester Police said:
"This behaviour by groups of youths has been causing extreme anxiety and distress to many residents including elderly victims.
"Our team would appreciate parents reinforcing a message to young people not to copy behaviour seen on social media such as the TikTok Heartbeat challenge."
The Neighbourhood Policing Team in Westham say they've also become aware of a number of incidents.
A spokesperson for Weymouth & Portland Police said:
"It may seem like harmless fun to some, but we are aware that a number of properties have been repeatedly targeted, including the home addresses of older vulnerable people. This behaviour has been causing a great deal of anxiety and distress to a number of residents.
"We have been out on foot patrol over the weekend in response to these reports and patrols will continue.
"We have already been able to obtain CCTV footage and have also been passed a few names of those suspected to be involved. Enquires are ongoing in relation to this and follow up visits will be made in due course to speak to those who have been mentioned in front of their parents.
"Those found committing offences or engaging in this activity will be dealt with accordingly."