To the Honorable Judge: Long Beach Courthouse

Re Case: People v Julie Afaq Haq 24LBCF00565

Rodger Lee Watkins, an amazing husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend was tragically killed while driving to work at CSULB by Julie Afaq Haq on February 20th, 2024 at 11:49pm. The scar, pain, and trauma she left his family is immeasurable. On the day of his funeral on March 14th, 2024 over 350 family and friends attended to say their last goodbye. We now need the court to ensure that justice is given to Rodger.

Rodger leaves behind a wife, whom he celebrated his 25th anniversary in 2023; 5 adult children; 4 grand-children, who he was proud of and loved deeply.  This is a sudden and profound loss to the entire family. Rodger was his wife’s sole provider who suffers from physical disabilities, and she is now unable to support herself.  

Ms. Haq is being charged with a felony for running a red light, while speeding and intoxicated.  Fortunately for Ms. Haq, she walked away from the collision with minimal injuries. Meanwhile, the private autopsy report states Rodger’s body suffered tremendously in his last moments.  Upon impact he broke his neck, ruptured his heart, spleen, broke his ribs and fractured his skull.  He had no chance of survival. Rodger allegedly died at the hands of a drunk driver, speeding and running a red light on that rainy day.

This horrendous crime deserves justice.

However, before charges were brought Ms. Haq obtained and hired a former LA district attorney to represent her. Her lawyer’s website references how his early support can limit the charges or otherwise mitigate the consequences of his clients’ conduct. We are petitioning the court to fully hold Ms. Haq responsible for her actions. We believe anything less than the current charge of a felony gross vehicular manslaughter would represent a grave injustice to Rodger’s life and the hole that is left after his killing. 

We believe Ms. Haq acted with gross negligence if it is proven that she: (1) drove while intoxicated; (2) ran a red light; and (3) sped. Unfortunately, these types of collisions occur far too frequently, yet drivers get a plea bargain and serve only months of a sentence.  How is this justice for the family? Further, how is this adequate deterrence for future drunk drivers?! 

Consequently, we are asking that if she is found guilty that there is no leniency granted in her sentencing.  Julie A. Haq took a life; a beautiful human with the warmest smile.  It would be unjust if she only received probation or a light jail sentence. The people seek justice.  Our family seeks justice and urge this court to ensure that justice is truly served. We ask for imprisonment and restitution to Ms. Watkins.

Please - sign today to ensure justice for Rodger L. Watkins.

To learn more about Rodger L. Watkins death please visit:

https://lbpost.com/news/rodger-watkins-obit-crash-salgado-anaheim-atlantic/​

https://daily49er.com/news/2024/03/14/csulb-staff-mourn-death-of-co-worker-following-fatal-car-crash/​

https://lbpost.com/news/crime/search-warrant-rodger-watkins-ran-red-light-speeding/

Thank you once again for your generosity, compassion, and consideration. It has been a blessing to have you at our side during this journey of healing.

With love, 

The family of Rodger Lee Watkins