Police said one protester was armed with a crowbar and threatened a member who tried to stop the group.
SEATTLE — Protesters broke into the Church of Scientology in Washington state on Saturday during a demonstration related to an online trend, Seattle police said.
this Trend starts in Aprilafter social media users began posting videos of themselves entering Church of Scientology property and “running fast” throughout the building.
According to the Seattle Police Department, officers responded to the religious center located at 300 West Harrison Street in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood around 3 p.m.
Police said some protesters damaged a rear metal door and forced entry into the building.
One of them was armed with a crowbar, according to police.
A member of the group tried to stop the group from entering, but police said one protester wielded a crowbar, causing the member to fear for his safety.
Police said protesters turned off power after entering the building, disrupting service and causing members to shelter in place.
After a brief foot pursuit, officers arrived and took the suspect into custody, according to police.
Investigators reviewed surveillance footage and determined possible second-degree burglary, a hate crime and felony harassment, police said.
Police said patrol officers remained at the scene after the investigation was completed until all members had safely exited the building.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
