Behind the Scenes: A Couple's Dark Side

In California, a couple who used surrogate mothers to have many children are now in serious trouble. They are accused of abusing those children and treating their employees badly. The couple, Silvia Zhang and Guojun Xuan, are at the center of a big investigation.

Children Rescued, Abuse Alleged

Police found 15 children in their home and took them away for safety. The children were hurt, both physically and emotionally. A nanny was arrested for shaking a baby so hard it ended up in the hospital. Zhang and Xuan were also arrested but released while the investigation continues.

Workplace Abuse Allegations

Former employees say the couple ran their real estate business in a shady way. They didn't pay workers properly, made them work long hours without breaks, and fired them unfairly. Six former employees sued the couple for these reasons.

• Tina Powers, an employee, said the couple yelled and threw things at each other all the time. She also saw cameras everywhere in their home, making employees feel like they were being watched.
• Alejandro Diaz sued the couple for wrongful termination, assault, and not paying him overtime. He said Xuan was violent, throwing rocks and even a stun gun at a tenant's dog. Xuan allegedly pointed what looked like an assault rifle at Diaz, making him fear for his safety. Diaz's lawsuit was settled, but the details are kept secret.

Surrogate Mother's Shocking Discovery

A surrogate mother, Kayla Elliott, thought she was helping a couple who couldn't have children. She didn't know Zhang and Xuan already had many kids. Her child is now in foster care, and she's fighting to get custody.

Ongoing Investigation

The police are working with the FBI and child services to investigate the couple. Zhang says the accusations are wrong and she will clear her name. But for now, the couple's actions have raised many red flags.