Children in a safe environment, representing the need for child protection
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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