NCIS: Origins Episode 12 ‘Touchstones’ Explores Evidence Room Break-In

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — The latest episode of ‘NCIS: Origins,’ titled ‘Touchstones,’ aired Monday, February 3, 2025, on CBS, delivering a gripping storyline centered around a break-in at the NCIS Camp Pendleton evidence room. The episode delves into the aftermath of the incident, which leaves senior custodian Kowalski (Michael Harney) grappling with the consequences of his life’s work being destroyed.

In the episode, the evidence room is ransacked, and $40,000 in cash goes missing, prompting the team to investigate a possible connection to a recent case. The break-in forces Kowalski to confront his role and responsibilities, leading to a dramatic resignation. A sneak peek released by CBS shows Kowalski handing over his keys to Dawson (Daniel Bellomy), signaling a potential shift in the team’s dynamics.

‘When the evidence room is broken into and significant cash goes missing, the team looks into a connection to a recent case,’ reads the episode’s logline. ‘Also, Lala (Mariel Molino) opens up to Gibbs (Austin Stowell), and Kowalski struggles to move forward.’

The episode also explores the personal lives of the characters, with Lala sharing a heartfelt moment with Gibbs. Meanwhile, Kowalski’s resignation raises questions about the future of the evidence room and who will step into his shoes. Dawson, though capable, appears uninterested in taking on the role, leaving a potential gap in the team’s operations.

‘Touchstones’ was written by executive producers Gina Lucita Monreal, David J. North, and Brendan Fehily, with Anya Adams directing. The episode continues to build on the show’s exploration of the early days of Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ career, offering fans a deeper look into the challenges and relationships that shaped his journey.

New episodes of ‘NCIS: Origins’ air Mondays on CBS, with past episodes available for streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S.