Southern California Couple Arrested in Child Abuse Investigation

Community members express concern for the children involved in the ongoing investigation.

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 Arrested in Child Abuse and Surrogacy Investigation

Arcadia, California — Silvia Zhang, 38, and Guojun Xuan, 65, are currently under investigation following allegations of child abuse involving 21 young children, some of whom were born through surrogacy arrangements. The authorities initiated the investigation after a 2-month-old infant was hospitalized with traumatic head injuries believed to be caused by abuse.

Initial Investigation and Child Removal

On May 9, police officers executed warrants at the couple’s residence in Arcadia, removing 15 children from their home. The children, whose ages range from 2 months to 13 years old, include several infants delivered by different surrogate mothers. In addition to the removed children, six other minors belonging to the couple are currently in the care of family members or friends. Law enforcement officials have not disclosed specific details about the surrogacy arrangements or the total number of children born through this method.

Evidence of Abuse and Arrests

Authorities confirmed the discovery of video footage showing instances of physical and emotional abuse inflicted by nannies employed by Zhang and Xuan. Among these, a 56-year-old nanny has been identified and an arrest warrant has been issued against her for suspected felony child endangerment. The footage reportedly shows her mistreating the 2-month-old baby, which prompted the arrest.

The couple was detained on May 9 on charges of felony child endangerment and neglect. However, both Zhang and Xuan were released shortly afterward, pending further investigation. Law enforcement agencies are collaborating with the FBI and the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services to pursue additional evidence and determine whether a broader surrogacy scheme was involved.

Legal and Workplace Allegations

Beyond the child abuse allegations, investigations have revealed unethical business practices associated with the couple’s real estate company, Yudao Investments. Former employees, including a former assistant, have reported poor working conditions, such as late or unpaid wages, absence of breaks, and unsafe work environments. Witnesses also recounted frequent violent arguments between Zhang and Xuan, creating a dysfunctional workplace atmosphere.

Another former employee, Alejandro Diaz, filed a lawsuit accusing Xuan of wrongful termination and physical assault, including threats with a toy gun. The lawsuit was settled under confidentiality terms, but Diaz described his experience working for the couple as chaotic and oppressive.

Surrogacy Agency and Surrogates’ Experiences

The couple was linked to a surrogacy agency named Mark Surrogacy Investment LLC, which has since been terminated. Multiple women who served as surrogates for Zhang and Xuan reported feeling misled about the scope and nature of their arrangements. Kayla Elliott, a surrogate who delivered a child for the couple, was unaware of their additional children and is now seeking custody of her child, who had been placed in foster care.

Community and Official Response

Authorities continue to investigate the full extent of the surrogacy scheme and potential allegations of illegal activity. The investigation focuses on whether the children’s welfare was compromised and the legality of the surrogacy arrangements involved. Officials have emphasized their commitment to protecting the minors involved and hold the couple responsible for any misconduct uncovered.

Statements from the Accused

While Zhang has publicly denied the allegations, asserting her intention to clear her name, law enforcement and child advocates maintain their focus on ensuring the safety of the children involved. As investigations remain ongoing, authorities urge the public to remain cautious and await further updates.