Authorities take custody of 21 kids in California while investigating a Los Angeles-area couple for allegedly misleading surrogate mothers in what has emerged as a complex case involving child abuse allegations and potential surrogacy fraud. The investigation centers on Silvia Zhang, 38, and Guojun Xuan, 65, whose Arcadia home became the focal point of a major child welfare intervention.
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Investigation Begins After Hospital Report
The case began in early May when Arcadia police launched a child abuse investigation after a two-month-old baby was hospitalized with head trauma. The infant’s legal parents, Zhang and Xuan, were arrested on suspicion of felony child endangerment and neglect on May 9, though they were later released pending further investigation.
Police allege a nanny abused the baby, and the parents delayed seeking medical attention. This initial incident led investigators to discover a much larger situation involving multiple children and surrogate mothers.
Authorities Take Custody of 21 Kids in California Home
Fifteen children were removed from the couple’s opulent home in Arcadia after an abuse allegation in May, and another six living elsewhere were also located. The children range in age from 2 months to 13 years, with most between 1 and 3 years old.
The massive 10,000-square-foot property, worth approximately $4 million, has nine bedrooms and is set up like a hotel, with a lobby and suite-like arrangements. Neighbors described the unusual living arrangement as resembling a commercial facility rather than a typical family home.
Key Points Summary
- 21 children are now in protective custody with California child welfare services
- 15 children were removed directly from the Arcadia home
- 6 additional children were found living with family and friends
- Ages range from 2 months to 13 years old
- Investigation focuses on potential surrogacy fraud and child abuse
- Parents arrested on felony child endangerment charges in May 2025
Surrogate Mothers Report Being Misled
Public records list an Arcadia home as the address for Mark Surrogacy and also as the residence of Silvia Zhang, the woman the surrogates say they carried for. Multiple surrogate mothers have come forward claiming they were deceived about the nature of their agreements with the couple.
The surrogates allege they were misled about various aspects of their contracts and the intended use of the children they carried. These claims have prompted authorities to investigate whether the couple operated a fraudulent surrogacy scheme alongside the child welfare concerns.
Surveillance Evidence and Ongoing Investigation
Detectives tell CBS News Los Angeles that other nannies employed by the family were also seen abusing all the children at the home on the surveillance camera footage. This evidence has expanded the scope of the investigation beyond the initial single incident.
Arcadia police Lt. Kollin Cieadlo said they believe most of the children were born through surrogate arrangements, though the exact nature of these arrangements remains under investigation. The department is working to determine whether the couple violated laws related to surrogacy agreements.
Child Welfare Response
California child welfare services have taken custody of all 21 children while the investigation continues. The agency is working to ensure proper care for the children, many of whom are very young and may have special needs related to their circumstances.
The case has raised questions about regulatory oversight of surrogacy arrangements in California and the protection of both surrogate mothers and resulting children. State authorities are reviewing the couple’s business practices and any potential violations of surrogacy laws.
Legal Implications Moving Forward
Both Zhang and Xuan were booked for felony child endangerment and neglect, though it remains unclear whether they will face additional charges related to the surrogate mother agreements. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the full scope of any potential crimes.
The case highlights the complex intersection of family law, child welfare, and reproductive rights in California. As authorities continue their investigation, the focus remains on protecting the welfare of the 21 children while ensuring justice for any victims of potential fraud or abuse.
This developing story continues to unfold as investigators work to piece together the full extent of the couple’s activities and their impact on the children and surrogate mothers involved. The community watches closely as this unprecedented case moves through the legal system.