Smith is a particularly manipulative serial killer who uses his young son to lure women into a false sense of security before abducting and murdering them.

In addition to Eddie Cibrian, the episode features Gordon Clapp.

The killer is Joe Smith, played by guest star Eddie Cibrian .

has gone missing (effectively leaving the team). Aaron Hotchner has been suspended. Emily Prentiss has resigned (though she later returns).

For a deeper dive into how this episode fits into the larger narrative of the BAU's most challenging season, you can watch this recap:

The team manages to track Smith down before he can kill his next victim. A significant moment occurs when the team must also manage the psychological well-being of the killer's son, who was forced to be an accomplice. Production Notes Official Title: " In Name and Blood " Release Date: Originally aired on October 3, 2007. Director: Felix Enriquez Alcala.

In this episode, the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) is in a state of upheaval. Following the events of the Season 2 finale and the Season 3 premiere, the team is shorthanded:

The title "In Birth and Death" is often used as an alternative or descriptive title for of the crime drama Criminal Minds , which is officially titled " In Name and Blood ." Episode Summary: "In Name and Blood"