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California couple with 21 children, most born via surrogates, charged in ‘house of horrors’ abuse case

NBC News • October 6, 2026 • nation

Key Points:

Silvia Zhang and Guojun Xuan, a Southern California couple with 21 children born mostly via surrogates, were arrested for conspiracy to commit child abuse and witness intimidation after authorities uncovered severe abuse and cover-up efforts.
The couple operated a surrogacy ring, deceiving surrogate mothers about their family size and intentions, paying some women up to $135,000 while hiding the fact they already had numerous children.
Investigators found that the children were subjected to daily physical abuse and punishments, often monitored by the couple through 32 surveillance cameras, with some abuse encouraged or directly inflicted by Xuan.
Authorities removed 15 children from the home last year, with six more found in relatives' or friends' care; prosecutors are seeking $100 million bail for the couple ahead of their arraignment.
A nanny caught on video violently shaking a 2-month-old infant remains at large, with an arrest warrant issued, as the investigation into the case continues.

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