Facebook posts lead to mother's arrest

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) - A Virginia Beach detective revealed in court Thursday that a Facebook conversation led them to a local mother wanted in connection with her infant daughter's death.

Julie Calahan, 23, moved to Arkansas after police say her 11-month-old daughter La Keira died of shaken baby syndrome.

The detective testified in one post Calahan allegedly wrote "I was drunk and I got up and shook her." She also told the court Calahan apparently admitted to police she shook the little girl.

Virginia Beach Police told WAVY.com in May 2009 an 11-month-old died in the care of her uncle. Police said they found La Keira Calahan unresponsive at a home on Gunter Street. The baby's uncle, 23-year-old Stephen Calahan, was charged with second degree murder.

Two and a half years later, detectives arrested and charged La Keira's mother with murder, according to a Virginia Beach Police news release.

Julie Calahan was in a Virginia Beach court Thursday. A physician from Children's Hospital of the King's Daughter testified the baby had numerous injuries that were consistent with being shaken, including bruises and bleeding on the brain.

A Virginia Beach detective took the stand and testified Calahan allegedly told someone on Facebook she was remorseful. The detective added Child Protective Services got a hold of this exchange and notified Virginia Beach Police.

It also came out during testimony Stephen Calahan was found guilty of child neglect in 2010 but the murder charge was not prosecuted.

The case was certified to a grand jury and a trial date was set for August 1. Calahan will remain in jail without bond.

10 On Your Side's Ava Hurdle was at the courtroom today and will provide the latest information on the case as it becomes available.

Stay with WAVY.com for updates on this developing story.