Man charged with murder of Kerry sheep farmer Michael Gaine

A man has been charged with the murder of Kerry sheep farmer Michael Gaine.

Michael Kelley, 54, of no fixed abode, appeared before Tralee District Court charged with Mr Gaine’s murder between March 20 and 21 2025.

Mr Kelley, who is understood to be a US citizen, appeared in court wearing a rust-coloured jumper and beige trousers.

Detective Sergeant Mark O’Sullivan, from Killarney Garda Station, said Mr Kelley was arrested for the murder of Mr Gaine on Wednesday afternoon at Castleisland Garda Station.

He told the court he cautioned Mr Kelley, explained the reason for his arrest and said he replied that he understood.

He then charged Mr Kelley and told the court he made no reply to the charge.

Judge David Waters said, due to the nature of the charge, a bail application would need to be sought in the High Court, and remanded Mr Kelley in custody.

Solicitor for Mr Kelley Pat Mann handed in a statement of means for Mr Kelley and applied for legal aid, which was granted.

Mr Kelley is next due to appear before Tralee District court via videolink on March 4.

The case is to go to trial at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin.

Mr Gaine, 56, was last seen alive on the morning of March 20 last year when he bought phone credit in a shop in Kenmare.

After weeks of extensive searching involving Irish soldiers, the Coast Guard and the Garda water unit, Mr Gaine’s partial remains were found at his farm on May 16.