California couple arrested after 21 surrogate-born children found at properties
Guojun Xuan, aged 65, and his partner Silvia Zhang, 38, were arrested in May 2025 on suspicion of child abuse and neglect at their $4.1 million Arcadia mansion. Authorities discovered 21 surrogate-born children, ranging from two months to 13 years old, across multiple properties owned by the couple. The case has prompted state and federal investigations into what authorities believe may have been an improper surrogacy operation.
Xuan's attorney claims his client was motivated by altruism—a desire to raise children who would contribute meaningfully to society. However, search warrants reveal troubling evidence: a two-month-old boy was hospitalised with severe head injuries allegedly inflicted by the couple's nanny, Chunmei Li, captured hitting the child on security footage. Former employees have also described a harsh environment marked by constant threats and physical punishment, and the couple remains free on $500,000 bail each whilst under investigation.
- Couple arrested with 21 surrogate children at $4.1m mansion.
- Lawyer claims altruism; authorities allege child abuse and neglect.
- Evidence includes hospitalised infant with head injuries from nanny.
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Guojun Xuan and Silvia Zhang, a California couple, were arrested in May 2025 after authorities discovered 21 children living across their properties, ranging in age from two months to 13 years old. All of these children had been born to surrogate mothers—a practice in which another woman carries and gives birth to a child for intended parents. Concerns about the children's welfare prompted investigations by state and federal authorities.
The couple face accusations of child abuse and neglect, though Xuan's attorney claims his client was motivated by altruism and a desire to raise children who would contribute to society. Evidence includes a two-month-old child who was hospitalised with severe head injuries allegedly inflicted by a nanny employed by the couple, and former employees have described physical punishment and constant threats toward the children.
The case raises broader questions about how surrogacy arrangements are regulated in California and whether adequate safeguards exist to protect children in such circumstances. It highlights concerns about oversight of surrogacy operations and the welfare of children born through such arrangements.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “California man arrested for having 21 surrogate babies with partner at mansion claims he wanted to raise huge family of well-adjusted children for the benefit of society”.