Couple Charged with Abusing 14 Surrogate-Born Children in California Home

Guojun Xuan and Silvia Zhang, who operated a surrogacy company, are accused of subjecting 15 of the 16 children living in their home to repeated physical abuse after 21 children were removed from their custody last year. The investigation, launched in May 2025, uncovered evidence of widespread abuse, with some children as young as two months old affected.

A record number of children are coming forward to allege abuse, a trend that has left authorities scrambling for support. In a recent case, two individuals - Guojun Xuan, 66, and Silvia Zhang, 39 - appeared in court, both pleading not guilty. If convicted, Xuan's sentence could reach 17 years and four months.

Meanwhile, Zhang's maximum sentence would be 11 years and eight months, according to Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan J Hochman.

The investigation, which began in May 2025, revealed a disturbing pattern of abuse. In July 2025, authorities raided the couple's home, taking 21 children into state custody. Fifteen of the children were taken from the couple's home.

Meanwhile, six others were living elsewhere and were also later taken into custody.

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Mitchell Krems, the couple's lawyer, has stated that the allegations are a "mischaracterisation" based on the evidence he has reviewed. Krems claimed that Guojun Xuan was being targeted for exercising his constitutional right to have a large family.

Melissa Brisman, the attorney for two of the surrogates, welcomed the news, saying that it is "wonderful news that people will be held responsible for their actions and there will be consequences if you abuse the surrogacy system."

Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan J, Hochman stated. that the investigation uncovered evidence of widespread abuse. With 15 of the 16 children living in the couple's home subjected to repeated physical abuse.

The couple faces up to 17 years and 11 years in prison if convicted, respectively.

The couple's surrogacy company has been at the centre of controversy, with allegations of abuse and dissuasion of witnesses.

The investigation into Guojun Xuan and Silvia Zhang's alleged abuse of surrogate-born children has uncovered a disturbing pattern of abuse. With 15 of the 16 children living in their home subjected to repeated physical abuse.

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September 2025: The couple pleaded not guilty at a Pasadena courthouse.

Many have expressed their support for the victims and their families, calling for justice and accountability.

Others have raised concerns about the safety and well-being of surrogate mothers and children. This highlights the need for greater regulation and oversight of the surrogacy industry.

As the trial approaches, the community remains vigilant, demanding justice and accountability for the victims and their families.