Epstein Purchases Great Saint James Island
Jeffrey Epstein purchased Great Saint James, a larger neighboring island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, expanding his island holdings significantly. The purchase raised questions about the purposes of the expanded footprint.
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In 2016, Jeffrey Epstein acquired Great Saint James, a larger island adjacent to Little Saint James in the U.S. Virgin Islands. At approximately 165 acres — more than twice the size of Little Saint James — the purchase substantially expanded Epstein’s island footprint in the USVI.
The reasons for acquiring a second, larger island attracted speculation. Great Saint James had limited development compared to Little Saint James. Some investigators and journalists noted that the purchase of the adjacent island provided additional buffer against approach by boat and extended the secure private water surroundings of his primary island property.
The purchase also raised questions in the context of the USVI attorney general’s later investigation: the expansion of island holdings in 2016 — after Epstein’s 2008 conviction — suggested an ongoing investment in the USVI operational infrastructure rather than any withdrawal from the location.
The estate of Epstein listed Great Saint James for sale following his death, alongside Little Saint James.