Epstein Purchases Great Saint James Island — Second USVI Property
Jeffrey Epstein purchases Great Saint James island in the US Virgin Islands for approximately $22.5 million. Great Saint James is adjacent to his existing Little Saint James island. The acquisition gives Epstein control of both islands in the channel between St. Thomas and St. John — providing a buffer zone around his primary compound and eliminating the risk of any adjacent development that might compromise privacy or create observation angles.
People Involved
Epstein’s acquisition of Great Saint James in 2016 significantly expanded his USVI footprint and completed his control of the surrounding water approach to Little Saint James.
The Strategic Logic
By owning both islands, Epstein:
- Eliminated any possibility of development on adjacent land that could compromise privacy
- Controlled all access to his primary compound from the sea between the islands
- Had additional land for potential development under his complete control
The Property
Great Saint James is substantially larger than Little Saint James. At the time of purchase, it was largely undeveloped — no major structures. The purchase price of approximately $22.5 million was paid in a cash transaction through an Epstein-controlled LLC.
USVI Regulatory Issues
Epstein’s acquisition of Great Saint James was accompanied by development commitments and regulatory requirements under USVI law. Allegations in the USVI Attorney General’s 2020 lawsuit included claims that Epstein failed to properly develop properties according to required plans, affecting the legitimacy of his EDC (Economic Development Commission) benefits.
After Epstein’s Death
Both Little Saint James and Great Saint James were part of Epstein’s estate and subject to sale in connection with the estate’s settlement obligations. The two islands eventually were listed for sale, with Little Saint James ultimately sold in 2024.