Michael Kelley, an American national and former soldier, appeared at Tralee District Court for a brief hearing where the book of evidence was formally served. Judge David Waters asked whether he understood an alibi notice, and Kelley replied, “Yes sir.” Kelley is charged with murdering Kerry farmer Mike Gaine at the victim’s farm in Carrig, Kenmare, between March 20 and 21, 2025. The hearing lasted only minutes and drew significant press attention, while Mike Gaine’s wife Janice Gaine watched from the public benches with family and friends. The State sought to send Kelley forward for trial to the Central Criminal Court. The judge noted bail was not a district court matter, confirmed a single murder charge, and directed the case to the next sitting of the Central Criminal Court. Legal aid was granted for two defense counsel.
"Michael Kelley (54), attended the brief hearing and when Judge David Waters asked if he understood an alibi notice, he replied, "Yes sir." Mr Kelley, an American national and former soldier, is charged with murdering Mr Gaine at the victim's farm in Carrig, Kenmare, between March 20 and 21, 2025."
"The hearing, which lasted only minutes, was attended by a large press presence. Mr Gaine's wife, Janice Gaine, watched the proceedings from the public benches, accompanied by family and friends. Mr Kelley sat staring ahead during the proceedings. He was dressed in a green polo shirt, cream trousers and boots, with his hair cut short and beard trimmed since his previous appearance."
"His solicitor, Pat Mann, told the court that the book of evidence has been served. Court presenter Sgt Chris Manton said that the State was seeking to have Mr Kelley sent forward for trial to the Central Criminal Court. Judge David Waters noted that bail was not a matter for the district court."
"He said that Mr Kelley faces one single charge of murder and sent him forward for trial to the next sitting of the Central Criminal Court. Legal aid was granted by the court to Mr Mann for two defence counsel for Mr Kelley's trial."
Read at Irish Independent
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