A tragic incident in Texas has led to serious criminal charges against a spa owner after a woman died following an IV therapy session. Authorities say the treatment was carried out improperly and without proper medical supervision, raising major concerns about safety in such facilities.
Incident at Texas med spa
The case took place in Wortham, where a business known as Luxe Medspa was operating. The victim, 47-year-old Jenifer Cleveland, had visited the spa for IV therapy on July 10, 2023.
Just a day before her death, she had posted positively about the spa on social media, praising its services.
IV therapy allegedly performed unsafely
According to the Texas Medical Board, the IV treatment included vitamins and electrolyte solutions.
Officials say the infusion was given too quickly, which can be dangerous, especially when certain substances are involved. The treatment reportedly led to sudden cardiac arrest within minutes.
Lack of license and supervision
Authorities allege that Amber Johnson, who owned and operated the spa, was not licensed to perform medical procedures.
Investigators also noted that there were no qualified medical professionals present at the time of the treatment. The medical director, Michael Patrick Gallagher, was reportedly more than 100 miles away and failed to provide proper supervision.
Dangerous substances involved
Reports state that the IV mixture included substances such as vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin B12, and TPN electrolytes.
The electrolyte solution is said to require a prescription and carries risks if not administered correctly. Officials believe improper handling of these substances played a key role in the fatal outcome.
Emergency response and death
Shortly after the treatment began, Cleveland was found unresponsive. Staff at the spa attempted CPR and called emergency services.
She was taken to Parkview Regional Hospital, where doctors continued efforts to revive her. However, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Charges filed against spa owner
A grand jury has indicted Johnson on multiple charges, including:
- Felony murder
- Manslaughter
- Criminally negligent homicide
- Practicing medicine without a license
- Delivery of a dangerous drug
- Evidence tampering
Authorities claim her actions directly led to Cleveland’s death.
Investigation findings
Officials said the spa lacked proper safety protocols for IV treatments. Investigators found that procedures were either unclear or not followed, putting patients at serious risk.
The case also highlighted gaps in oversight and training within the facility.
Legal proceedings ongoing
Johnson has been released on bond while awaiting trial. The case is being handled by the Texas Attorney General’s Office, and further court proceedings are expected.
