KENT COUNTY, Mich. — Editor's note: This article contains details of child abuse leading to death that many may find disturbing. Discretion is advised.

"I killed her."

That's a signed statement 27-year-old Irene Whitehead gave to detectives investigating the death of her 2-year-old daughter, Ryleigh. Whitehead was charged with felony murder and felony child abuse , and appeared in court Monday to face a judge.

"I understand you have no criminal history, but obviously, the allegations are horrific. So pursuant to those two statutory and constitutional authorities, bail is denied," Judge Kirsten Holz said.

Whitehead is due back in court on Dec. 10.

13 ON YOUR SIDE first spoke with Irene Whitehead in September 2023 when her 3-month-old daughter Ryleigh was hospitalized with what she

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