Thomas Yates, a.k.a. The Womb Raider, first appeared in Season 7 through a series of flashbacks, and is definitely one of the most appalling criminals seen on "Criminal Minds." The BAU's memories of the case, as seen through the flashbacks, are horrifying, as the episode reveals a misogynist, violent serial killer who stabbed women to death and removed their reproductive organs.
Later, the BAU discovers Yates started removing his victims' vocal cords after they had died. He remained one of the squad's most evasive unsubs, tormenting the BAU by making a deal to avoid death row in exchange for the revelation of one of his 101 victims each year. Yates eventually returns in Season 12, attempting to reform after escaping prison, but he continues to commit his horrifying crimes.
"Criminal Minds" became such a fan favorite because largely thanks to its incredible mysteries, but episodes like this make us understand why Mandy Patinkin quit the show after Season 2 due to its violent and damaging subject matter. We thoroughly enjoy the crime-solving in "Criminal Minds" – but some fans might want to skip this one during their many re-watches.
