Ep 2. Compulsion

The second episode of Criminal Minds season 1, titled "Compulsion," follows the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) as they investigate a string of murders in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The episode begins with the discovery of two bodies that have been posed in strange positions, leading the BAU to believe that the killer is seeking attention or trying to send a message.

As they delve deeper into the case, the team discovers that each victim was forced to perform a specific action before being killed, such as drinking poison or drowning. This leads them to believe that the killer has an obsessive-compulsive disorder and is compelled to carry out these rituals before each murder.

Meanwhile, Agent Gideon is working through personal issues as he struggles with the aftermath of being held hostage by a serial killer. He begins to experience flashbacks and fears that he may not be able to continue working with the BAU.

As the case progresses, the team meets with a man who claims to have information on the killer. However, the man's behavior is erratic and manipulative, leading the BAU to suspect that he may actually be the killer himself.

The episode culminates in a tense showdown between the BAU and the killer, with Gideon facing his own fears in order to bring the killer to justice.

Overall, "Compulsion" showcases the BAU's profiling skills as they try to understand the mind of a killer with OCD tendencies. It also explores the personal struggles of the agents, particularly Gideon, as they navigate the emotionally taxing world of criminal investigation.