Shivangi Sinha
In 1991, Verna Heath was stunned to discover that Wanda Holloway, the mother of her daughter’s schoolmate, Shanna, had plotted to have her killed. The news was both shocking and deeply unsettling, as Verna had done nothing to provoke such animosity. The ordeal left her grappling with fear and confusion, but she remained steadfast in her determination to see justice served. In the months that followed, Verna and her daughter, Amber Heath, attended the trial of the accused, witnessing the legal process unfold and eventually seeing justice delivered. Prime Video’s ‘The Texas Cheerleader Murder Plot’ explores the full scope of these events, shedding light on the shocking motivations and consequences of this case.
Amber and Verna Heath Fought for Their Justice Bravely
Amber Heath, the daughter of Verna Heath, was a student at a public school in Channelview, Texas, and one of four siblings alongside Aaron, Sean, and Blake. Verna was incredibly proud of all her children and shared a particularly close bond with Amber, who was a cheerleader. As a supportive mother, Verna stood by Amber’s side through her cheerleading journey, helping her during challenges and celebrating her accomplishments as she consistently made the school’s team. Verna, a dedicated dance and twirling instructor with 28 years of experience, was thrilled to see her daughter excel in a passion they both shared.
However, in January 1991, Verna’s life turned on its head when the police informed her that Wanda Holloway, another mother from the school, had been plotting her murder. It was extremely hard for Verna to process the plot against her. Wanda, the mother of one of Amber’s schoolmates, had attempted to hire her former brother-in-law, Terry Harper, to murder Verna. Wanda’s motive was rooted in her obsessive desire to see her own daughter, Shanna, secure a spot on the cheerleading team. Believing that Amber was Shanna’s biggest competition, Wanda assumed that eliminating Verna would emotionally devastate Amber and force her to quit cheerleading, thus giving Shanna an advantage.
Wanda offered Terry Harper $2,500 to kill Verna, thinking it would pave the way for her daughter’s success. Fortunately, Terry immediately informed the police and agreed to wear a wire to collect evidence against Wanda, ensuring that her heinous plan was stopped before it could be carried out. In June 1991, when Wanda was put through a trial in which she was found guilty of the charge of conspiracy to commit capital murder, Verna attended and was present in court all day with her daughter on her side. The case had already gained a lot of national attention, and she was grateful that justice had been delivered to her when Wanda was handed down a 15-year sentence.
Verna Heath Expressed That the Events Changed Her Life Entirely
In 1996, when Wanda Holloway faced a second trial after the first was declared a mistrial, Verna and Amber Heath were forced to relive the trauma of the entire ordeal. Although Wanda ultimately served only six months in prison before being released on parole, Verna chose to focus her energy elsewhere. In a later interview, she opened up about the profound betrayal and horror she felt upon learning the details of Wanda’s plot. She expressed how deeply unsettling it was to be hated so intensely by someone for simply living her life. Verna admitted that coming to terms with the situation was a struggle, and the emotional toll it took lingered with her for some time. Despite this, she worked to move forward and reclaim peace in her life.
Verna Heath is Working as an Associate for a Legal Services Firm Today
In the years following the ordeal, Verna Heath gained significant insight into the complexities of the legal system as she navigated her own case. This experience sparked a deep sense of empathy for others who might face similar challenges without the same resources she was fortunate to have. Determined to make a difference, Verna decided to transform her professional path and pursued a law degree at Lee College in Baytown, Texas. She later joined LegalShield as an Independent Associate, where she continues to work to this day. Her firm provides a range of services, including IDShield, a leading identity theft protection plan, as well as LegalShield, which is tailored for individuals, families, commercial drivers, and small businesses. The firm’s employee benefits programs have also gained widespread popularity.
Through her work, Verna has found a way to channel her experiences into helping others, offering them the support and guidance they need to navigate legal and personal challenges. On the other hand, Amber kept a low profile. In 2005, it was reported that she had not kept in touch with her former high school friend, Shanna, and was more focused on her life as a mother. She took on a new role and seemed to have turned over a new page in her life.
Amber and Verna Heath Have a Warm and Loving Family Around Them
Verna Heath continues to reside in Texas, surrounded by her loving and expansive family. Her four children and ten grandchildren are the center of her world, bringing her immense joy and fulfillment. A vocal and active member of her community, Verna frequently shares her political views and engages in local discussions, demonstrating her commitment to making a difference. Her daughter Amber, who now goes by the name Amber Hawthorne, has chosen to live a more private life and has not been very active in the public eye. Despite the challenges of their past, Verna and her family remain close-knit, embracing a life filled with love and resilience.
Read More: Shanna Harper: Where is Wanda Holloway’s Daughter Now?
