Godley Investigation: Prostitution Allegations, Ex-Police Ties, & Jailed Husband

Authorities say a years-long operation may involve former officers as the suspect’s wife speaks out

A North Texas prostitution investigation is widening with new allegations involving former law enforcement officers.

Investigators say a couple ran a years-long operation, working with members of the Godley Police Department to target local officials.

Michael Ketchershide, the husband in that couple, is now behind bars, and his wife, Ashley, is coming to his defense.

“He’s a great husband. He’s an amazing father and I hope to bring him back soon for my children,” Ashley Ketcherside said.

The Johnson County District Attorney's Office alleges a prostitution conspiracy linked to a local couple and former members of the Godley Police Department.

Michael Ketcherside was arrested on Thursday on a continuous promotion of prostitution charge and remains in jail.

Ashley Ketcherside has not been charged in connection to the case.

Prosecutors say the couple ran an operation serving numerous clients for the past five years.

A search warrant executed at their Godley home last Tuesday turned up what prosecutors say is evidence of an ongoing criminal activity.

“They grabbed a few USB drives and a couple of laptops, an iPad and a phone,” Ashley told NBC 5.

Authorities allege the couple worked with the then-Police Chief Matthew Cantrell and other officers, targeting public officials and private citizens whom they perceived as adversaries.

“I have no idea who they would be talking about or what kind of information would be said,” Ashley explained.

The DA’s Office says the officials known so far are members of the Godley City Council, Godley ISD School Board, the former mayor of Godley and a former police chief of Godley.

The investigation remains active with the possibility of more arrests.

Ashley is standing by her husband and pushing back against the allegations.

“I know that he’s strong and he’s going to get through this, we’re both going to get through this. We believe in the criminal justice system and I’m hoping that our names are cleared and we can move forward from here,” she said.