Man further remanded in custody accused of murdering Kerry farmer Michael Gaine

Judge remanded Michael Kelley to appear again by video link — 'if he’s still in custody'

Michael Kelley, a US national of no fixed abode and with a recent address in Tralee, is charged with the murder of 56-year-old Michael Gaine. File picture: Domnick Walsh

A 54-year old man accused of murdering a Kerry farmer has been further remanded in custody after he appeared briefly before Tralee District Court on Wednesday morning.

Michael Kelley, a US national of no fixed abode and with a recent address in Tralee, is charged that on a date unknown between March 20 and March 21, 2025, at Carrig, Kenmare, Co Kerry, he did murder 56-year-old Michael Gaine.

Mr Kelley's first court appearance on February 25 heard he made no reply when charged.

He was remanded to appear by video link on March 4 for the book of evidence and on that date was remanded for a further two weeks.

Appearing via video link from Cork Prison on Wednesday morning, dressed in a green shirt, Mr Kelley confirmed to the court registrar that “yes, sir” he could see and hear the court.

“Good morning, Patrick,” Mr Kelley greeted his solicitor Pat Mann.

Michael Gaine: Kerry farmer. 

Sergeant Chris Manton said the book of evidence was not ready and that the State’s application was for further remand in custody to April 1.

Mr Mann said he had no difficulty with this.

“A bail application is in transit,” Mr Mann said in reference to a High Court bail application which Mr Mann previously said was being formulated on behalf of his client.

Judge David Waters granted the application and remanded Mr Kelley to appear again by video link — “if he’s still in custody” — from Cork Prison at Tralee District Court on April 1.

Legal aid has been granted.

This article was funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme