An 18-year-old Brisbane teenager, Zeppelin Witheridge, appeared in court on Friday charged with public nuisance over a viral social media stunt known as a 'Scientology speedrun'. The incident, which took place on 9 May, involved hundreds of people gathering at the Church of Scientology in Brisbane's central business district.
What is a Scientology Speedrun?
The trend, which originated in Los Angeles and has since spread to cities including London, Edinburgh, New York, and Vancouver, treats Scientology buildings like video game levels. Participants race inside to see how far they can get before security catches them, recording their attempts for online ratings. In gaming terminology, a 'speedrun' involves completing a level as quickly as possible. In this real-world adaptation, buildings become maps, security guards act as non-playable characters, and doorways serve as checkpoints, with likes and shares as the reward.
The Brisbane Stunt
On the day of the event, approximately 200 self-styled speedrunners descended on the Brisbane church. However, they found the front door locked. Their attention then shifted to police officers who had gathered outside. Witheridge, a member of the Brisbane-based freestyle BMX group Ween Crew, is accused of launching his bike over the bonnet of a patrol car while onlookers cheered, filmed, and posted the footage online. Others allegedly jumped into the vehicle, further escalating the situation.
No arrests were made at the time, but the viral footage led to charges against Witheridge. He appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday, where he was charged with public nuisance, driving a vehicle without due care, and failing to wear a helmet while riding a bike. His case was briefly mentioned and adjourned to 24 June.
Church of Scientology Response
The Church of Scientology has condemned the speedrun trend, labeling it 'organized trespass' and harassment. The church claims that some stunts have caused property damage and minor injuries to staff. In response, some centers have removed exterior door handles to prevent entry.
The Brisbane incident highlights the real-world consequences of online challenges, as what started as a social media fad has now led to legal repercussions for the teenager involved.
