Character Reference for Gurjeet Singh Bath - Document 36-1 (Eastern District of California, 03/09/26)

Summary

This is a 12-page set of letters filed 03/09/26 as Document 36-1 in United States v. Gurjeet Bath, Case No. 1:24-CR-00198-JLT-SKO. The letters are addressed to the court or to Judge Jennifer L. Thurston and speak to the character of Gurjeet Singh Bath. They include Rodrigo Gutierrez, who says he worked as a local driver for Gurjeet Bath for approximately 5 years, and Charles Membrila, who writes a character reference as someone who worked alongside him in the office for over ten years. Gagandeep Singh writes as a friend of over 30 years, and Sara Mckillip signs as a former manager at Fifth Wheel Truck Stop. Sara Mckillip's letter asks the Court to take these qualities into account when deciding his sentence.

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Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 Filed 03/09/26 Page1of12

Dear Judge,

| Rodrigo Gutierrez first met Gurjeet Singh Bath around 2016 when | started off as a yard
worker who washed and cleaned their trucks and trailers. | aspired to one day be driving
them like the professional drivers that worked for the company. After receiving my
commercial license. | applied at many places even big named companies thinking it would
be a great start, but had no luck. They were not willing to give someone as young as me
without experience the opportunity to kickstart their career. | went back to G.S Bath and
asked Mr. Bath if he would give me an opportunity. Thankfully He did. | worked as a local
driver for Gurjeet Bath for approximately 5 years.

Their training program was spot on and | was trained so well by a fellow co worker. | always
looked to Mr. Bath for guidance in trucking or any business matter questions | had he would
gladly answer. | will forever be grateful for the opportunity he gave me that made a
significant impact in my life. He took a chance on me when no one else was willing to.

| would see him daily as | would leave each morning to pick up and deliver shipments and
return anywhere from mid-day to nighttime. If | ever needed any help making a doctor's
appointment or family event he would do his best to get me back home on time. Since |
know he is pretty big on family himself. He is a hard worker and was always busy. But he
would make time to leave the office to pick up his daughter from school as soon as she got
out. And bring her to work with him she was always happy to come and spend time there.
As he continued to work.

He has helped me and plenty of others by providing a job to support our families. Working
at this company it felt like a family. Everyone worked together to get the job done. | can say
that | still keep in touch with those who were my coworkers and have great friendships from
working at GS Bath.

Mr Bath was very thorough on scheduling loads and coordinating with shippers and
receivers to ensure that their needs were met. We hauled loads for various big companies
that many of us in America shop at such as Costco, Walmart, Sam's Club, and more. | was
proud to be a part of the team we had. And was proud to be serving America through the
years of Covid 19. Which I'm sure we all remember were tough times. Seeing the progress |
was making in my career with the company. It was truly upsetting to me and many of my
coworkers when the company stopped operating because of their family dispute.

We had not only lost our jobs, A means to provide for those we cared for. Also a great leader
who was attentive to work with your needs and home time. He was big on safety and
making sure you got adequate rest to be able to continue to work. Anytime | was in need of
some help and had an unexpected bill come up | could ask for an advance. And he was
Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 Filed 03/09/26 Page 2 of 12

always willing to help. He was always very responsible and held everyone in the company
to the same standard. If there was ever an issue. He would talk to you and coach you
instead of scolding you. That is one characteristic that really stood out to me.

This one mistake does not represent the true character of the person | have Known for
many years. | respectfully ask the court to consider the character and leadership |
witnessed over the years.

Respectfully,

Rodrigo Gutierrez
5720 S Peach Ave
Fresno, CA 93725
February 19, 2026
Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 Filed 03/09/26 Page 3of12

Charles Membrila

4024 E Acacia Ave

Fresno, Ca 93726

559-400-4455 (vstS59@me.com)

02/18/2026
Re: Character Reference for Gurjeet Singh Bath

The Honorable Judge Jennifer L. Thurston,

My name is Charles Membrila and I am writing to provide a character reference for Gurjeet S
Bath whom I worked for directly alongside in the office for over ten years. I saw who he really is
not just on normal days but during stressful and tough times too.

Gurjeet was a servant leader, fair and always accepted accountability and that was the reason

other employees and I could approach him directly even when we had made significant error. He
valued professionalism, reliability and honest communication. Those standards shaped the
culture of the office.

I saw those standards being applied over the years. There was an employee who repeatedly
struggled with attendance. Rather than terminating the employee after write-ups, Gurjeet took the
time to sit down with him, understand what was going on personally, and gave him clear
expectations along with an opportunity to improve. He followed up regularly, offered guidance,
and only made further decisions after giving that person a fair chance. That showed me his
willingness to lead with patience, and fairness rather than reacting harshly. He always referred to
me and others as “my co-workers” rather than “my employees.” That may seem like a small
detail but it reflected how he truly saw us as part of a team and not just workers under him.

He never shifted the blame onto others. Every time office was under tight time pressure, he
always stepped in, worked alongside staff, and shared the responsibilities. He held himself to the
same standards he expected from others which earned respect from the team and kept morale
steady during stressful times.

Over ten years of working closely with him every day, I saw someone who was responsible and
led by example. I’ve stayed in touch with him even after the company closed in early 2024. This
situation has weighed heavily on him. I have noticed a genuine change in his attitude and
priorities. He speaks openly about the mistake he made and the lesson he has taken from it. You
could see seriousness and humility in the way he reflects on what happened. Based on the length
and depth of our professional relationship, I respectfully ask the court to consider the full scope
of the person I observed consistently for over a decade.

Thank you for your time and consideration.
Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 Filed 03/09/26 Page 4of12

Gagandeep Singh

45 Bushland Road
Northampton NN3 2XA
United Kingdom

Mobile - +447404520920

23 February 2026
To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing this letter in support of Mr. Gurjeet Singh Bath (2745 S. Peach Ave, Fresno,
CA. 93725), whom I have known personally for over 30 years. We have been friends
from our school days when we were 7-8 years old and throughout that time, I have
come to know him as a responsible, respectful, and hardworking individual who would
go out of his way to help others in need. Our friendship has continued despite being
different countries, we have maintained contact and this has only made our friendship
stronger.

From a young age, Gurjeet has always been a bright and dedicated individual who works
hard and with genuine passion. I clearly remember during our school years that
whenever we were given group assignments, he would take responsibility to ensure the
work was completed properly and on time. He would always encourage us to put in our
best effort before offering his help, as he believed in developing discipline and
accountability in others. His leadership qualities and strong work ethic were visible
even at that early stage of life. Equally important, he has always conducted himself with
honesty and good behaviour whilst maintaining his integrity. During the many years |
have known him, I have never been aware of any issues concerning his character,
conduct, or dishonesty, and I fully stand by him.

Gurjeet is trustworthy, polite, and considerate towards others. He has always shown
respect for his elders, teachers, and members of the community. His strong moral values
are reflected not only in his words, but in his actions. On several occasions when |
visited him in Fresno, I would spend time at his office, as that is where he dedicated
most of his time. Despite managing a busy schedule, he always made time for me. On
one particular visit, shortly before COVID-19 pandemic began, I missed my connecting
flight to Los Angeles. Although he had significant work commitments, I witnessed him
distribute responsibilities amongst his staff to ensure operations continued smoothly,
and he personally drove me all the way to Los Angeles. I remember that some of his staff
members stayed beyond their normal working hours to support the situation. When |
spoke to him the following day, he had slept for barely an hour before returning to work
early the next morning. His willingness to inconvenience himself for others left a lasting
impression my family. My wife, in particular, has immense respect for him, as itis rare
to find a friend with such loyalty and selflessness.

During a separate visit, | also observed him supervising a project at his workplace.
Whilst giving instructions to his mechanic, he was firm about maintaining proper
standards and refused to take shortcuts, even though doing so would have been easier
and financially beneficial. He made it clear that quality and integrity were more
important than saving money. I was impressed to see that the same discipline and
Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 Filed 03/09/26 Page5of12

principles he displayed during our school days had remained unchanged over the years.
Additionally, I personally witnessed him making a donation to a Sikh temple. When
offered the opportunity to display his company’s name on a banner in recognition, he
respectfully declined, preferring to contribute without public acknowledgement. To me,
this spoke volumes about his character.

Based on my long standing relationship and friendship with him, I can confidently say
that he is a person of good character and strong principles. I fully support him and
believe he will continue to uphold the same standards of honesty and responsibility in
all aspects of his life. He has worked hard and consistently in his business and poured
his blood and sweat into this. I have seen a consistent pattern of discipline, loyalty, and
moral conduct, and J have every confidence that these qualities will continue to guide
him in the future.

Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Yours faithfully,
Gagandeep Singh
Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 Filed 03/09/26 Page 6 of 12

To Whom It May Concern:

My name is Harminder Singh, and | am writing this letter on behalf of my close friend,
Gurjeet Singh Bath, in connection with his upcoming court appearance. | have known
Gurjeet for nearly sixteen years, since the fall of 2009 when we first met as students at
the University of California, Davis. Over that time, | have developed deep respect for his
character, integrity, and the way he consistently puts others before himself. Over the
years, he has become like family to us. My parents, siblings and wife hold him in high
regard and always welcome him warmly whenever they see him.

From the very beginning of our friendship, Gurjeet stood out as someone with strong
values and a genuine sense of responsibility toward his family and community. While we
were in college, | saw him perform well academically and work toward his aspiration of
becoming a doctor. However, when his family experienced financial hardship, he made
the selfless decision to step away from his own career goals in order to support them.
That choice was not easy, but it demonstrated his maturity, sacrifice, and unwavering
commitment to his loved ones.

On a personal level, Gurjeet has always been someone | can depend on. During difficult
periods in my own life, he has been my first call for guidance and support. He listens
thoughtfully, provides honest advice, and shows up when it matters most. His loyalty
and compassion are qualities that | have consistently observed over the many years |
have known him. There have been countless instances where Gurjeet has shown up to
be a standup guy; there are two instances for which | am always especially grateful.
The first instance took place shortly after we graduated from college, when | was
searching for my first job. At the time, both of us were in a difficult financial position. |
had secured an opportunity in Utah, but in order to relocate, | needed to put down a
housing deposit and cover initial living expenses before receiving my first paycheck. |
did not have the financial means to do so. When | spoke with Gurjeet about my
situation, he did not hesitate to help me. Despite his own financial challenges at the
time, he lent me money so that | could secure housing and get on my feet. That support
allowed me to begin my career and move forward in life at a critical moment. His
willingness to help me during one of the most uncertain periods of my life is something |
will never forget, and it is a kindness | can never fully repay.

The second instance involved my brother-in-law who lived in Seattle, and had
purchased a truck located in Visalia but was unable to travel there in time to pick it up.
He reached out to Gurjeet for help. Even though Gurjeet had an extremely demanding
schedule at that time and realistically could not afford to step away from his
responsibilities for several hours, he still chose to help. He took one of his drivers with
him and personally drove approximately an hour each way to retrieve the truck. By the
time my brother-in-law and | arrived at his yard, Gurjeet had already got annual
inspection done by his mechanic, checked the systems, and even washed it so that
brother-in-law could immediately be on his way without delay. This was not something
he was obligated to do in any way, yet he went above and beyond simply because
someone needed help.
Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 Filed 03/09/26 Page 7 of 12

Experiences like these reflect the kind of person Gurjeet truly is. He does not just offer
words, he shows up. He sacrifices his own time, energy, and resources to help others
succeed and to ease their burdens when they are struggling. | have personally
benefited from his generosity and support during some of the hardest times in my life. |
have also witnessed his commitment to giving back to the community. He has had made
donations up to ten thousand dollar anonymously, $10,000.00 at one point, to local non-
profits. He does this quietly without seeking recognition, simply because helping others
is part of who he is and he prefers to stay out of the spotlight. He would never publicly
speak about them himself. | only became aware of some of these contributions
occasionally through conversations with him and through his wife or sisters. Gurjeet is
someone who contributes positively to his community.

The Court matter is serious, and he does not take that lightly. He has never tried to
justify what happened and takes the blame for it. He is fully aware of the consequences
and regrets not because he must face the consequence, but because of the impact this
has had on his family who are suffering alongside him. The thought of his loved ones
being affected by his mistake troubles him deeply.

Aside from this matter, he is a good person who cares deeply about his family, his
friends, and his responsibilities. | believe he has reflected sincerely on his actions and
has the capacity to learn from this experience and continue to be a positive, law-abiding
member of society. | respectfully ask the Court to consider Gurjeet’s character, his
history of selflessness, and the positive impact he has had on those around him when
making any decisions regarding his case.

Appreciate your consideration!

Sincerely,

Harminder Singh
19201 97th Ave S
Renton, WA 98055
(408) 439 - 4792
Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 Filed 03/09/26 Page 8 of 12

To the Honorable Judge,

My name is Jagjit Bath, and | am Raja’s youngest sister. | respectfully submit this letter in
support of my brother as the Court considers his sentencing. | ask that you consider not
only the offense he has accepted responsibility for, but the full scope of his character, his
rehabilitation, and the profound role he plays in our family and community.

Just before the COVID pandemic began, our father was diagnosed with esophageal cancer.
This diagnosis deeply affected our entire family and placed tremendous emotional and
financial pressure on Raja. He stepped forward without hesitation to help carry the burden
both in supporting our father through his illness and in continuing to run and grow the
family business. What began years earlier as temporary assistance in a small three-truck
operation evolved into long-term leadership. Through relentless hard work, long hours, and
sacrifice, Raja helped expand the trucking business and later diversified into farming
operations. He firmly believed that working harder and longer was the only way to protect
and provide for his family.

As his youngest sister, | have always looked up to Raja not only as my brother, but as a
father figure. He has guided me throughout my life with honesty and real-world lessons. He
never sugarcoated reality, he explained how the world works, how decisions carry
consequences, and how integrity matters. Our relationship has always been both sibling
and mentorship. He has been my protector, my advisor, and one of my closest confidants.
The values | carry today were shaped in large part by his guidance.

When the pandemic created unprecedented uncertainty, Raja was under immense strain
managing business pressures, our father’s illness, and the responsibility of supporting his
own young family. While these circumstances do not excuse his conduct, they provide
important context. Raja has admitted his wrongdoing related to the COVID relief funds. He
pled guilty, accepted full responsibility, and repaid the federal government in full. He has
never attempted to deny or minimize his actions.

Since that time, | have witnessed meaningful rehabilitation and personal growth. Raja
recognized that he had been internalizing stress for years. He sought professional help to
better manage his mental health and decision-making. He has learned that being present
for his family is just as important as providing financially. His priorities have shifted toward
balance, integrity, and emotional availability.

Raja is a devoted husband and father. His 10-year-old daughter deeply relies on him for
guidance and stability. He teaches her life lessons through real examples including
accountability and learning from mistakes. His 1-year-old son is at a critical developmental
stage where a father’s presence shapes security and identity. The time Raja has already
Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 Filed 03/09/26 Page 9of12

spent Incarcerated has had a noticeable emotional impact on his daughter. Further
incarceration would impose significant hardship on his minor children and wife, who
depend on him both emotionally and financially. The collateral consequences he has
already endured reputational harm, financial strain, emotional distress within his family,
and the burden of a federal conviction have been severe and lasting.

Beyond his immediate family, Raja has consistently demonstrated compassion and strong
community values. He treated every employee with dignity, whether it was a driver,
dispatcher, accountant, or laborer. He provided employment opportunities to individuals
experiencing homelessness because he believed in second chances. He shared food with
those in need and donated to shelters without seeking recognition. When our family
acquired farmland on Peach Avenue where sage was naturally grown, he chose not to
remove it carelessly. Instead, he invited Native American community members to conduct
a respectful ritual prior to clearing the land, reflecting his respect for culture and
community.

In my sincere belief, Raja presents a very low risk of recidivism. He has shown genuine
remorse, full acceptance of responsibility, repayment of restitution, and measurable
personal growth. He has strong family support, stable community ties, and a renewed
understanding of lawful conduct. This experience has humbled him deeply and reshaped
his perspective on success and responsibility.

| respectfully ask the Court to consider the factors outlined under 18 U.S.C. 83553(a),
including his history and characteristics, his acceptance of responsibility, the need to avoid
unnecessary hardship on his minor children, his demonstrated rehabilitation, and the low
likelihood of reoffending. Raja is not defined by this offense. He is defined by how he has
responded — with humility, accountability, and meaningful change.

Thank you for your time, consideration, and service.

With respect,

age Bath.

Jagjit Bath
Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 Filed 03/09/26 Page 10 of 12

a

Avpreet Othee

3733 San Jose Ave, Apt 5
Merced, CA 95348
970-672-7827
avpreetsingh@hotmall.com

February 22"", 2026

The Honorable
United States District Court
Eastern District of California

Re: Hearing for Gurjeet Bath

Dear Judge,

My name is Avpreet Othee, and Gurjeet Bath is my brother-in-law. I have known Gurjeet since
2014. He is like a brother to me, and as a member of the family, I know him very well. Gurjeet is a helpful
individual whose support has been formative in my studies, both morally and financially.

There are numerous instances I remember that demonstrate his hard work and commitment to his
employees. I had a firsthand experience of this at his workplace, G.S. Bath. I was on vacation from my
studies and spent over a month in Fresno, where I volunteered at the business, helping with yard chores
and almond harvesting. Gurjeet treated his employees like family, and the environment was both
welcoming and professional. I recall employees inviting Gurjeet to family events, which I happen to
attend, showing the bonhomie and cordiality that existed among them. I made friends with many of the
employees, some of whom had been with the company for many years, which speaks to the great work
environment at G.S. Bath.

Gurjeet is a kind person, a loving father, and a devoted husband. Having known him for a long
tume, I have always admired his efforts in community service. The community kitchen is an essential
aspect of the Sikh religion, and he is an active member of the Sikh community. I have personally witnessed
his volunteer efforts at community kitchen events. His selfless acts of service and his commitment to the
community were also demonstrated when he organized an event for the local Native American community
to collect sage from his agricultural land. Learning about the event and the associated press coverage was
heartwarming, and I was proud of him for his dedication to the community.

[understand that his actions were wrong, and the law must take its course. However, having known
him for such a long time and being in touch with him recently, I have seen how this mistake has deeply
impacted him. His regret is genuine, and it is evident in his actions and demeanor. Gurjeet’s commitment
to his family, employees, and community is a testament to his character and compassion for others.

Sincerely,

Avpree Othee, PhD
Sr. Power Electronics Control Engineer
Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 Filed 03/09/26 Page 11 of12

Kao Saetern
5327 E Kaviland Ave
Fresno, CA 93725

February 23, 2026
Subject: Gurjeet Singh Bath
Dear Honorable Judge Jennifer L Thurston,

My name is Kao Saetern, and | have been a neighbor of Gurjeet Singh Bath and his family
for over ten years. During that time, | have come to know them well and have always found
them to be kind, welcoming, and respectful members of our community.

Gurjeet and his family have consistently shown generosity and warmth, inviting us to share
in important family gatherings such as birthdays and weddings. In every interaction | have
had with Gurjeet, he has been courteous, considerate, and respectful.

lam especially grateful for the support his family has shown mine. Gurjeet’s wife graciously
allowed my oldest daughter to shadow her at work as a pharmacist for several days. This
experience was incredibly meaningful for my daughter and gave her valuable insight into
the profession. Our family is truly thankful for their kindness and willingness to mentor and
encourage her.

It has been a comfort to have such a caring and dependable neighbor. Gurjeet has always
demonstrated strong character and a genuine concern for those around him. | respectfully
ask that you consider this letter as a sincere expression of my support for Gurjeet.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Kao Saetern
Case 1:24-cr-00198-JLT-SKO Document 36-1 File d 03/09/26 Page 12 of 12

wheeltruckstop@gmail.com
Refe rence Letter 3767 S. Golden State Blvd, Fresno, CA 93725

P-(559) 485-0701 Fax-(559)485-5314

Re: Charachter Reference Letter for Gurjeet Singh Bath
Judge Thurston,

This letter is to show my support and give a character reference letter for Gurjeet Singh Bath
with G.S.Bath, Inc. I have known Mr. Bath for 11 years now, first 9 years as a business client
and the last 2 we have stayed in touch personally after he shut down his operations and got to
know him outside of work. I started working at Fifth Wheel Truck Stop in 2012 and was the
manager from 2014 until it sold in 2025. His company's trucks fueled up daily for those 9
years until they closed up.

Mr. Bath handled the invoices and always kept up with communication. Since we did high
volume of business together, staying financially responsible was necessary on his part. During
the time when their finances were tight, he never avoided responsibility. He would come in
personally to review the outstanding balance and work with me to ensure a plan was in place
to clear the balance. When they had shut down their operations, there was still a huge
outstanding balance owed by the company. We worked out a final payment plan together and
over the period of five months, he paid every bit as promised with no excuses. That
experience showed me that he takes financial duties seriously and does not walk away from
his commitments when times get tough.

All through our business years, he ran his company with real professionalism. My employees
interacted with him and his drivers on regular basis and they always had positive things to
say. His drivers were respectful and acted professionally which showed the standards he set as
a leader. His operation was organized from scheduling the trucks to fuel up to billing to
everyday coordination. That reliability built trust between our businesses and kept things
running smooth. In my book, a company is a mirror of its leader. The professionalism of his
staff, the organization of his operation, and the way he handled financial responsibility all
points to the kind of character he brought to his work. He always approached my staff and I
with a genuine smile and good humor leading his business in a structured and professional
way.

Based on what I have seen over the years, J respectfully ask the Court to take these qualities
of Mr. Bath into account when deciding his sentence. I believe he's a responsible and
honorable man who has always stepped up to his obligations and tried to do right.

Sincerely,

Sara Mckillip

Former Manager, Fifth Wheel Truck Stop
3621 W Harvard Ave

Fresno, CA 93722


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