'Criminal Minds' season 12 cast, spoilers news: producer teases several escaped convicts caught by Luke

 CBS

"Criminal Minds" season 12 is going to deal with the escaped prison convicts when it premieres, but a report from Entertainment Weekly reveals it is not going to pick up the day after the season 11 finale. Instead, there will be a short time jump and in this time newcomer Luke Alvez (Adam Rodriguez) has already caught at least eight of them.

"There are still five out there when we come into the premiere," explained executive producer Erica Messer. She then confirmed that Luke had caught the initial 8 criminals over the span of the recent summer. This may help in developing his character the moment the show premieres but it might also be viewed negatively by other officers. 

She went on to tease that one of the remaining five will be the main villain for season 12. "One of them is a guy Peter Lewis plays named Mr. Scratch. He is our baddie for the year. We will stretch him out and tell his creepy tales." 

A report from Design and Trend digs even further, stating that back in season 10 Peter Lewis aka Mr. Scratch (Bodhi Elfman) was known for using mind-altering drugs that could enable him to manipulate his victims, making them do whatever he wanted. The character previously manipulated Hotch (Thomas Gibson) and is now back as the main antagonist.

It is undetermined at this point just how far Mr. Scratch is going to go in order to deal death and destruction. It is hinted in Messer's statement that the villain will not be present during the early part of the season, allowing the team to focus first on the other four escaped convicts as he begins laying his plans to work. 

A previous report also revealed the return of Emily Prentiss (Paget Brewster), who might be helping in the fight against Mr. Scratch.

"Criminal Minds" season 12 will premiere this Sept. 28.

News
Civil rights leader Rev Jesse Jackson dies at 84
Civil rights leader Rev Jesse Jackson dies at 84

The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a longtime civil rights activist and former presidential candidate who garnered controversy over his political activism and personal misconduct, has died at age 84.

Pastor considers legal action after arrest over comments on Islam and transgender ideology
Pastor considers legal action after arrest over comments on Islam and transgender ideology

The Alliance Defending Freedom warns of more such arrests if the government introduces its much-maligned definition of 'anti-Muslim hatred'.

Why do Christians observe Shrove Tuesday?
Why do Christians observe Shrove Tuesday?

17 February 2026 is Shrove Tuesday, the traditional day for eating pancakes before the start of Lent. This is the story …

CoE announces £400,000 to get young people into choirs
CoE announces £400,000 to get young people into choirs

Most CoE choirs currently have no children involved.