A US national charged with the murder of Kerry farmer Michael Gaine has been sent forward for trial to the Central Criminal Court.

Michael Kelley, of no fixed abode, was brought in person today (Wednesday, May 27) at Tralee District Court.

The 54-year-old is charged with the murder of Michael Gaine on a date unknown between March 20 and March 21, 2025 at Carrig, Kenmare, Co. Kerry.

Kelley, who appeared with short hair and a beard, wore a green polo shirt, beige pants and boots for this morning's short hearing.

Court

Solicitor for the accused, Pat Mann told Judge David Waters that the book of evidence in the case had now been served.

Sergeant Chris Manton agreed with Judge Waters that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had consented to trial on indictment at the Central Criminal Court.

Judge Waters remanded Kelley on continuing custody and sent him forward for trial on the single charge in the book of evidence at the next sitting of the Central Criminal Court.

The judge noted that bail in this case is "not a matter" for the district court.

Solicitor Pat Mann agreed that his client was in a position to be sent forward for trial.

Judge David Waters asked Michael Kelley if he understood what an alibi was, to which Kelley said yes.

The judge told Kelley if his defence to this charge relied on an alibi then details of this must be provided within 14 days.

Judge Waters granted legal aid to solicitor Pat Mann and two legal counsel.

Michael Kelly thanked his solicitor before leaving the court.

Janice Gaine, the wife of the late Michael Gaine, was in court for today's court sitting.

Farmer

Michael Gaine, a suckler and sheep farmer, was reported missing from his home near Kenmare, Co. Kerry, on March 21, 2025.

The 56-year-old had been last seen in Kenmare town on the previous day.

On April 29, 2025, gardaí upgraded their investigation on the missing Kerry farmer to homicide.

Gardaí confirmed on May 25, 2025 that human remains that had been found on lands owned by Michael Gaine were those of the missing farmer.

Michael Kelley was charged with Michael Gaine's murder in February.