Authorities take custody of 21 children in California amid claims that surrogate mothers were misled by the couple involved.

In a developing story from California, authorities are currently investigating a couple in the Los Angeles area regarding potential misconduct related to surrogacy arrangements. The couple, Silvia Zhang, 38, and Guojun Xuan, 65, have had 21 children taken into custody by the state’s child-welfare agency. This action comes in the wake of allegations of abuse and misrepresentation concerning surrogate mothers across the country.

Initial reports indicate that 15 children were removed from the couple’s luxurious residence in Arcadia after an allegation of abuse was raised in May. The children, ages ranging from 2 months to 13 years, most of whom are between 1 and 3 years old, included seven who were not residing at the Arcadia home but were later located. According to Arcadia police, one or two of the children are believed to be biologically related to Zhang.

The investigation was sparked when a hospital reported that a 2-month-old infant in the couple’s care had suffered a severe head injury, attributed to an incident involving a nanny who allegedly shook the baby violently. Notably, the child did not receive medical attention for an additional two days. While neglect charges have not been formally pursued to enable a thorough investigation, police have indicated that the couple expressed a desire for a large family.

Zhang has presented what appear to be valid birth certificates listing her as the mother of these children, including documents purportedly issued outside California. The investigation has expanded to involve federal authorities, although specific details have not been disclosed.

Local news outlets have quoted individuals who claim to have been surrogate mothers for Zhang and Xuan, indicating that not all were aware of the extent of the couple’s surrogacy arrangements. The circumstances surrounding the couple’s legal representation remain unclear, as efforts to reach Zhang for comments were unsuccessful.

Business records indicate that a company named Mark Surrogacy Investment LLC was previously registered at Zhang and Xuan’s address, although documentation shows that the business was terminated in June.

Kallie Fell, the director of The Center for Bioethics and Culture, has publicly criticized the couple’s operation, arguing that such practices exploit women involved in surrogacy. Some individuals, including Texas surrogate Kayla Elliott, have expressed distress at having been misled about the couple’s intentions, suggesting that more robust regulatory oversight is essential.

The Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services has stated that they are unable to discuss specific details regarding their actions in this case.

As investigations continue, the story highlights ongoing concerns about surrogacy ethics and the implications for all parties involved. Media News Source will provide updates on this unfolding situation as further information becomes available.