Angela Gots

The CBI pursues two lines of investigation when a Santa is murdered: Patrick Jane goes undercover in an AA group; and Rigsby and Van Pelt question members of the National Society of Authentic Santas. Meanwhile, following the demise of a person in custody at the CBI, J.J. LaRoche (guest star Pruitt Taylor Vince) is brought in to question the team when it appears to be an inside job. Guest star Gregory Itzen returns as retired former CBI director Vincent Minelli.

The president's administration encounters hostility while dealing with the Russian government; Dmitri is kidnapped and interrogated about being a spy.

Elizabeth and President Dalton discover a secret that could impact Maria Ostrov's reputation; Dmitri wants to stop being a spy.

Elizabeth, Russell and Mike B. must oust Craig Sterling from his role as national security adviser without creating a scandal; the person who hacked Air Force One is identified.

Henry shares information that causes Elizabeth to reconsider her theory that the Russians are responsible for the attack on Air Force One.

The BAU suspects a member of the LGBT community lacking control when a series of unidentifiable male bodies are discovered in Palm Springs. Reid balances the care of his mother with investigating the case.