I am impressed by the many compelling ideas supporting each suspect as RJ. That notwithstanding, I really hope some of the suspects turn out to be good guys -- or at least normal human beings (good intentions, serious flaws but also some positive characteristics).
In particular, just how many psychopathic serial killers -- and devoted followers of a psychopathic serial killer -- can there be in law enforcement in one area?! RJ is striking because psychopathic serial killers are rare. It is quite a stretch to assume that even criminals would be willing to accompany RJ down such a heinous path, much less be willing to die for RJ.
Also, while the conspiracy theories are fun, it strikes me as weak if the plot depends on widespread evil, with the lone exception of Lisbon's virtuous, heroic team. Ordinary failings often are quite enough to explain dishonorable or questionable behavior. For instance, Bertram was perfectly willing to write Jane off after he killed Timothy Carter. This is perfectly in keeping with an excessively ambitious bureaucrat/politician whose commitment to his subordinates ends when they cease to further his career. (BTW, try as I might, I can't reconcile the plaque for bravery in Bertram's office with a RJ personality, regardless of the other clues suggesting Bertram might be RJ. Bravery -- especially the aspect of risking self for another -- seems incompatible with the absolute self-referential nature of RJ. RJ appears to place zero value on any person or belief system except his own.) Kirkland's murder of Jason Lennon isn't far from the ruthless values and actions sometimes required of spies. If Lennon were a covert agent "turned" by RJ (as Kirkland said, Lennon allowed himself to become the "plaything of monsters"), Kirkland might have killed Lennon to protect some larger investigation. Anyhow, it's too precious for all virtue to reside in Lisbon's team with evil widespread among other law-enforcement teams and agencies.
Just a thought. Thanks for reading this.
