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 Investigation Involving 21 Children and Surrogacy Allegations
Arcadia, California — Silvia Zhang, 38, and Guojun Xuan, 65, are under investigation following allegations of child abuse involving a total of 21 young children. The couple’s case has raised concerns about possible illegal surrogacy activities and the welfare of the children involved.
Initial Police Action and Child Removal
Authorities responded after a two-month-old baby was hospitalized with traumatic head injuries believed to be caused by abuse. As part of their investigation, police confirmed they removed 15 children from the couple’s residence in Arcadia. The children’s ages range from 2 months to 13 years, with most between 1 and 3 years old. It remains unclear how many were conceived through surrogacy arrangements.
Legal Developments and Arrests
On May 9, Zhang and Xuan were arrested on suspicion of felony child endangerment and neglect. However, both were released pending further investigation. An arrest warrant has been issued for Chunmei Li, a 56-year-old nanny featured in video footage showing her abusing the two-month-old baby.
Evidence of Abuse and Neglect
Investigators uncovered video evidence revealing that some children experienced physical and emotional abuse from nannies employed by the couple. These images depict instances of violent discipline, raising further concerns about the children’s safety. Authorities are continuing to examine whether this abuse was part of a broader pattern linked to the couple’s activities.
Background and Allegations of Unethical Business Practices
In addition to child welfare concerns, the couple’s real estate business, Yudao Investments, faces scrutiny due to lawsuits from former employees alleging unethical and illegal business practices. Former staff, including a delivery driver, report issues such as late wages, denied breaks, and unsafe work environments. Employees have also recounted episodes of violence and dysfunctional atmosphere within the workplace, including instances of Xuan’s alleged threatening behavior with a toy gun.
Surrogacy and Misleading Practices
A surrogacy agency linked to Zhang and Xuan, Mark Surrogacy Investment LLC, has been terminated amid concerns over unethical practices. Multiple women who served as surrogates have reported being misled regarding their rights and the number of children involved. One surrogate, Kayla Elliott, who gave birth for the couple, was unaware of the existence of the other children and is now seeking custody of her child, who has been placed in foster care.
Children’s Well-Being and Family Ties
The children involved are of varying ages, with most being toddlers. Several children are in the care of family members and friends, as authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding their care. The exact number born through surrogacy remains undisclosed, but with many children in protective custody, concerns about their immediate safety are at the forefront of ongoing investigations.
Official Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Arcadia Police Department is collaborating with the FBI and the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services to explore additional allegations, including potential violations related to surrogacy schemes. The investigation aims to determine the full scope of any illegal activities and to ensure the safety and welfare of all children involved.
Remarks from the Accused
Zhang has publicly denied the allegations, asserting her intention to clear her name and fight the accusations. Meanwhile, authorities are continuing their work to uncover all facts surrounding the case, which remains an active investigation.
This case underscores the complexities involved in surrogacy arrangements and child welfare protections, highlighting the importance of regulatory oversight and safeguarding vulnerable children from potential abuse and exploitation.
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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 CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga 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 Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.
