Since the Church of Scientology's inception in 1954, numerous Scientologists have been involved in scandals, at times serving prison sentences for crimes, such as those committed in Operation Snow White. While some mainstream media outlets have publicized alleged abuses, representatives of the church have claimed to be under attack by critics who misrepresent the church's intentions in order to fulfill a nefarious agenda. Many critics have called into question several of the practices and policies that the Scientology organization has in place in regards to its dealings with its critics and detractors.