The "Rules of Engagement" changed this week, as the Major Crimes division finally had enough of listening to Rios boss them around as if she knew what she was doing.

Whether it changes anything going forward, we'll just have to wait and see.

Sharon tossed Jack a bone by asking him to help her out with a witness to a crime. It didn't take long to discover why her marriage to him was on the rocks. He took what was given to him and ran with it like a small child, clutching the case and turning it into something more than it was, trying to steal his moment in the sun. 

The whole episode was essentially a play on that theme wherever you go, there you are. You can try to change, to be someone you are not, alter your colors... but in the end you have to face up to who you are and what you have done. Nobody can forgive you your trespasses but yourself. 

The witness in the crime had turned to God while in prison, and being recently released he still hadn't fully realized all he had done. Despite his talk about Christ and the good man he was now, he had to be prodded to let out the reality of a murder for hire he committed. It was admirable he made the right choice. Perhaps there is hope for those that choose that path while incarcerated, yet he was still released without admitting a more heinous crime than that he went to prison for committing, so you have to wonder.

Jack learned little while being treated with love and affection by Rusty and kindness from Sharon. His final speech to Rusty about the things that seem real being fake and then giving him advice on how to lose Chris as a potential girlfriend really hurt. He told Rusty, "her parents think you're boyfriend, but we both know who you really are." He didn't follow it up with what he meant, but the look of pain on Rusty's face was enough. 

While Jack's initial introduction to the group was fun, leaving a letter for Sharon that she didn't read left it so that I hope she finally moves on. She needs to let go of the past and move forward with her new life. A life that doesn't include baggage willing to hurt her and those she loves so grievously. We've learned enough about her to know she deserves an equal sparring partner in her life.

The best part of the hour was as each member of major crimes that wanted to take a turn at Rios did it, after Sanchez opened the flood gates. Like I said earlier, we won't know for a while whether it will make a difference because she doesn't seem like the sharpest tool in the shed, but that Shanchez got the ball rolling was enough for me. Check out this Major Crimes quote and then chat about it in the comments!

Rios: Oh God. Don't ya just love gang cases.
Sanchez: I don't think this is gangs.
Rios: Why? The vehicle was found in gang territory with a gang weapon in the back seat....
Sanchez: A gang wouldn't leave the car on the street like that...
Rios: I'm not finished! Speedy and his Third Streeters, they think it was gangs. It was a drive by. Plus I...
Sanchez: Plus you need to watch your mouth.
Rios: Excuse me?
Sanchez: Did you sleep on the floor every night so you wouldn't get gunfire? Anyone in your family shot dead on the street? You spend your career hunting these guys? It's not gangs! And you stop talking to me like I'm your waiter. | permalink

Carissa Pavlica is the managing editor and a staff writer and critic for TV Fanatic. She's a member of the Critic's Choice Association, enjoys mentoring writers, conversing with cats, and passionately discussing the nuances of television and film with anyone who will listen. Follow her on X and email her here at TV Fanatic.