27-05-2025
Gaine suspect says organised criminals 'may be trying to string me up'
An American man who has identified himself as the man who was arrested for the suspected murder of Kenmare farmer Michael Gaine has suggested that organised criminals may be trying to frame him.
Mr Gaine, a 56-year-old sheep farmer with land near Kenmare in Co. Kerry, was reported missing from his home more than eight weeks ago.
Partial human remains, confirmed to be those of Mr Gaine, were discovered last week in a field where slurry was spread on Mr Gaine's farm. May 21st 2025: Forensic Gardai continue their examination of silage bales on the farm of Mike Gaine near Kenmare Counrty Kerry on Wednesday. Photo: Don MacMonagle
An American man who was arrested as a suspect in the Michael Gaine murder investigation over a week ago, has now said that he had nothing to do with the farmer's death and suggested that someone is trying to 'string me up'.
Farmhand and former member of the US Armed Forces, Michael Kelley made his status as an asylum seeker public last week after being arrested on Sunday, May 18, and detained at Killarney Garda Station in Co. Kerry.
Mr Kelley was detained for 24 hours before being released without charge the following night. A member of Garda Technical Unit at the scene in Carrig East, Kenmare, as they investigate the disappearance of Kerry farmer Michael Gaine. Pic: Noel Sweeney/PA Wire
Speaking to the Irish Mirror, the 53-year-old said: 'There may be elements that want to string me up – people who have an interest in organised crime – people who are involved in organised crime.'
Mr Kelley was refused asylum in Ireland and had been served with a deportation notification. However, he still has the right to reside here and is legally entitled to appeal the refusal of his asylum application. Michael Gaine. Pic: An Garda Síochána Missing Persons
Speaking to the Mirror, he said he is only seen as a suspect because 'I lived there'.
