Criminal Minds season 12 episode 9 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
In "Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 9, the BAU team faces a complex case involving escaped convict and serial killer Tommy Yates. Newly hired Agent Steven Walker joins the team, bringing years of experience. Agent Rossi, conducting a profiling seminar, is haunted by a past deal with Yates, who reveals one victim location each year on Rossi's birthday. This year, Yates escalates his killing spree, influenced by his terminal cancer diagnosis. Rossi and the team race against time, deciphering Yates' motives and patterns. The case culminates in a tense standoff on Rossi's property, where Rossi is forced to shoot Yates to save a victim. The emotional aftermath sees Rossi grappling with the personal toll of their work, while the team provides closure to the victims' families. The episode highlights the psychological depth and challenges faced by the BAU team.
Full Episode S12E09 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Steven Walker?
Steven Walker is a new agent hired by the BAU, with nearly 20 years of experience in the bureau and a background working with Interpol.
What is the focus of Agent Rossi's training seminar?
The seminar focuses on advanced profiling and crisis management, teaching regional coordinators how to handle extreme cases, such as hostage situations and negotiations with unsubs.
How does Rossi deal with the simulated hostage situations in the seminar?
Rossi uses the simulations to teach various strategies, such as negotiating with the unsub, handling shootouts, and the importance of profiling to control situations.
Who is Tommy Yates?
Tommy Yates is an escaped convict and prolific serial killer, known for his brutal method of killing women and removing their reproductive organs.
What is the significance of Rossi's birthday in relation to Yates?
Every year on Rossi's birthday, as part of a deal, Yates reveals the location of one of his victims to Rossi.
How has Yates' victim profile changed in this episode?
Yates' victim profile has changed from high-risk individuals (like runaways and prostitutes) to low-risk individuals, which is unusual for his pattern.
Why is Yates on a killing spree?
Yates is on a killing spree influenced by his terminal cancer diagnosis, feeling the urge to kill as many as he can before his death.
How does the team discover Yates' illness?
The team discovers Yates' cancer through a blood sample found at a crime scene, which leads them to adjust their profile of him.
What does Rossi do to find Yates' location?
Rossi deduces Yates' location by reflecting on their past interactions and realizing Yates wants to taunt him personally, leading to a confrontation on Rossi's property.
What happens in the final confrontation between Rossi and Yates?
In the final confrontation, Rossi is forced to shoot Yates to save another potential victim, as Yates refuses to go back to jail due to his terminal illness.
How does the BAU team handle the aftermath of Yates' spree?
The BAU team works to reconcile with the families of Yates' victims, providing closure and support.
What emotional impact does the case have on Rossi?
The case deeply affects Rossi, making him reflect on the personal costs of their work and the importance of remembering the lives they save.
What does Rossi do for the seminar attendees at the end?
Rossi invites the seminar attendees to his home for dinner, showing appreciation for their work and concern for their well-being.
Why does Agent Clark decide to leave the program?
Agent Clark decides to leave the program due to the emotional toll and impact on personal life, as seen in the Yates case, and his recent engagement.
What is Rossi's personal ritual to process cases?
Rossi's personal ritual to process cases involves cooking Spaghetti Alla Carbonara, a dish that helps him relax and reflect, symbolizing his methodical approach to profiling.