The charges, announced by Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, include multiple counts of child abuse, conspiracy to commit child abuse, accessory after the fact, and dissuading a witness. According to prosecutors, the couple recruited women across the United States as surrogates under the pretense of seeking one more child, then amassed a total of 21 children. Inside the couple’s sprawling Arcadia home, investigators found a bank statement showing more than $70 million in one account, along with assets such as antique sculptures and specialty alcohol valued at nearly $10 million.
Deputy District Attorney MacKenzie Teymouri told the court that the couple maintain more than 200 personal and 70 corporate bank accounts, with annual transfers of $250 million. She also noted that both individuals hold U.S., Mexican, and Chinese passports, though investigators had not determined whether all were legitimate, and prosecutors alleged that fake passports were used to open some bank accounts.
During a news conference, Hochman said: “The physical abuse, beating and punishment that these very young children received is despicable.” The children were reportedly beaten by cruel nannies while the couple observed and laughed, according to prosecutors.
In court in Pasadena, the couple entered not-guilty pleas. Prosecutors had requested bail of $100 million each, citing the seriousness of the charges and flight risk. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Kerry White set bail at $20 million each, with home detention and a protective order banning contact with the children. Defense attorney Mitchell Krems called the bail amount “absurd” for the offenses his clients face.
The investigation is ongoing, and the case is expected to draw attention to the regulation of surrogacy and the oversight of children in such arrangements.