What Does "Unsub" Mean in Criminal Minds?
Criminal Minds, a popular American crime drama television series, has a loyal fan base that is hooked on the show’s intense investigations and intricate storylines. One term that may be unfamiliar to new viewers is "unsub." But what does "unsub" mean in Criminal Minds?
What does "unsub" mean?
In the show, "unsub" is short for "unsubstantiated suspect," a term used by the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) to refer to a suspect or perpetrator who has not yet been identified or apprehended. The term is commonly used by the team when discussing a case and referencing a suspect who is not yet known or identified.
The BAU and Unsubs
The Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) is a fictional department within the FBI that focuses on investigating and solving heinous crimes. The BAU team, led by Aaron Hotchner (played by Thomas Gibson), consists of a group of expert profilers, each with their own unique set of skills and expertise.
How the BAU identifies Unsubs
The BAU team uses a range of techniques to identify Unsubs, including:
- Behavioral profiling: By analyzing the crime scene and the behavior of the perpetrator, the BAU team can create a psychological profile of the Unsub, which helps them narrow down the list of suspects.
- Evidence collection: The team collects physical evidence from the crime scene, such as DNA samples, fingerprints, and tire tracks, which can help them identify the Unsub.
- Witness testimony: The team interviews witnesses and victims to gather information about the crime and identify potential suspects.
- Analysis of victimology: The team studies the behavior and characteristics of the victim to understand the Unsub’s motivations and tactics.
Types of Unsubs
Unsubs can take many forms, including:
- Serial killers: These are individuals who have committed multiple murders, often with a specific modus operandi (MO).
- Burglars: These are individuals who have committed crimes to steal property or gain illegal entry into a location.
- Rapists: These are individuals who have committed sexual assault and battery.
- Spree killers: These are individuals who have committed multiple murders in a short period of time.
What does the Unsub symbol mean?
Throughout the series, the Unsub symbol () is often shown on the screen. The symbol represents the Unsub, and it is a visual reminder of the presence of an unknown or uncaught suspect.
Other significant Unsub cases in Criminal Minds
Some of the most significant Unsub cases in Criminal Minds include:
- The Hotch and Rossi Case (Season 2): This case involves a sniper who is targeting high-profile individuals, including Hotchner and Rossi.
- The Reaper (Season 5): This Unsub is a serial killer who is targeting the entire BAU team, using his knowledge of their investigative techniques to evade capture.
- The Highway Hypcr (Season 8): This Unsub is a serial killer who is targeting hitchhikers, using his ability to manipulate and control his victims to evade capture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the term "unsub" in Criminal Minds refers to an unidentfied or unsubstantiated suspect. The BAU team uses a range of techniques to identify Unsubs, including behavioral profiling, evidence collection, witness testimony, and analysis of victimology. Unsubs can take many forms, and they pose a significant threat to public safety.
