Ep 7. Identity

The Criminal Minds Season 3 Episode 7 titled "Identity" follows the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) as they investigate a case in Seattle, Washington. The team is called in to assist the local police department in identifying a serial killer who has been targeting and murdering young girls.

The episode begins with the discovery of another victim, a teenage girl found murdered and posed in a park. The BAU quickly determine that the killer has a specific type and motive, targeting girls who resemble someone from his past. As they dig into the case, they discover that the killer may be using a fake identity to blend in and avoid detection.

This episode takes a closer look at the idea of identity - both in terms of the killer's attempt to hide his true self, and the BAU's use of profiling to uncover his true identity. The team combs through the killer's past and interviews those who knew him, in an attempt to build a portrait of the type of person who would commit such heinous crimes.

Throughout the episode, tension mounts as the team realizes that the killer is getting closer and closer to his next victim. They work tirelessly to piece together clues and identify potential targets, racing against the clock to catch him before he can strike again.

As the investigation heats up, the team must also deal with internal conflicts. Agent Emily Prentiss (played by Paget Brewster) struggles with her role on the team and her relationship with Unit Chief Aaron Hotchner (played by Thomas Gibson), while Agent Derek Morgan (played by Shemar Moore) clashes with a local detective over jurisdiction.

In the end, the team is able to identify the killer and apprehend him before he can harm anyone else. As they continue their work across the country, they are left to reflect on the nature of identity - both the one we present to the world and the ones we keep hidden inside.