News Summary
A Southern California couple, Silvia Zhang and Guojun Xuan, faces a child abuse investigation involving 21 children, including a hospitalized infant. The authorities removed 15 children from their home and are also looking into allegations of unethical surrogacy practices related to their real estate business. Multiple lawsuits have been filed by former employees, highlighting a chaotic and abusive work environment. The investigation, which involves the FBI and local child services, continues as the couple denies the allegations and seeks to clear their names.
Southern California Couple Detained in Child Abuse and Surrogacy Investigation
Arcadia, California — Silvia Zhang, 38, and Guojun Xuan, 65, are under investigation following allegations of child abuse involving their care of 21 children, including infants born through surrogacy arrangements. Authorities initiated the probe after a 2-month-old baby was hospitalized with head injuries believed to result from abuse.
Key Events and Current Status
Investigators confirmed that 15 children were removed from Zhang and Xuan’s residence during the ongoing investigation. The children’s ages range from approximately 2 months to 13 years, with most between 1 to 3 years old. Authorities have not disclosed detailed information regarding which children were born via surrogacy or the total number of surrogates involved. A suspect, Chunmei Li, a 56-year-old nanny captured on video abusing the infant, has an arrest warrant issued against her. She is accused of physically and emotionally abusing the child, with police confirming video evidence of the alleged maltreatment.
Legal Actions and Preliminary Arrests
The couple was detained on May 9 on suspicion of felony child endangerment and neglect, although they were subsequently released pending further investigation. A collaborative effort involving the Arcadia Police Department, the FBI, and the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services is ongoing to explore potential illegal activities related to surrogacy and child care arrangements.
Investigations Reveal Possible Illicit Practices
Authorities are examining allegations that Zhang and Xuan engaged in unethical activities linked to their real estate business, Yudao Investments. Former employees have reported poor working conditions, including late payments, denial of breaks, and unsafe environments. One former assistant described witnessing frequent, violent arguments between the couple.
Another former employee, Alejandro Diaz, filed a lawsuit accusing the couple of wrongful termination and workplace assault, including threats made with a toy gun. Although the suit was settled under confidentiality, Diaz characterized his employment period as chaotic and abusive.
Child Care and Surrogacy Arrangements Under Scrutiny
The investigation also targets a surrogacy agency linked to the couple, Mark Surrogacy Investment LLC, which has now been terminated. Several women who acted as surrogates reported being misled regarding the nature and extent of the couple’s children. One such woman, Kayla Elliott, who delivered a child for Zhang and Xuan, was unaware of their multiple children and is now seeking custody of her child, who is in foster care.
Officials believe the surrogacy scheme may have involved multiple women, with some women reportedly coerced or misinformed about the number of children being born through the arrangement.
Children’s Well-Being and Ongoing Family Situations
Authorities are working to determine the current status and living arrangements of the children. Several are currently with relatives or friends of the couple, but the exact number of children born through surrogacy remains unclear. The youngest child involved is just 2 months old, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and support services.
Statements and Next Steps
Zhang has publicly denied the allegations, asserting her intention to clear her name. The investigation is ongoing, and officials continue to gather evidence regarding the couple’s activities and the welfare of the children involved.
This case underscores concerns over the oversight of surrogacy practices and the protections available to children involved in such arrangements. Authorities emphasize their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the children and addressing any illegal or unethical conduct uncovered during the investigation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Teacher Arrested for Planning Sexual Encounter with Minor
Additional Resources
- USA Today: Southern California Couple Under Investigation for Child Abuse
- Los Angeles Times: Arcadia Children Removed in Surrogacy Investigation
- Fox 26 Houston: California Couple Investigated for Child Abuse
- Google Search: Surrogacy California investigation
- AP News: Arcadia Children Removed from Surrogacy Investigation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Surrogacy
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
