Little Saint James Island Sold as Part of Epstein Estate Settlement
Little Saint James island — Jeffrey Epstein's private USVI compound, nicknamed 'Little Saint Jeff's' by locals — is sold at a price reported to be approximately $6 million in connection with the settlement of Epstein's estate. The island had been on the market for several years during the estate proceedings. The sale price was significantly below the island's pre-controversy market value, reflecting the stigma associated with the property and the condition of its structures, most of which had been demolished.
People Involved
The sale of Little Saint James island marked the final disposition of the property that had served as the operational center of much of Epstein’s trafficking network.
The History of the Property
Epstein purchased Little Saint James in approximately 1998 for around $7.95 million. He then invested tens of millions in development — building the compound, residences, utility infrastructure, and various outbuildings. At its peak the property was estimated to have a value of $60-80 million as a private island compound.
What Happened Before the Sale
Following Epstein’s 2019 arrest and death, and pursuant to orders in various settlement proceedings, much of the island’s constructed infrastructure was demolished. Satellite imagery from 2021-2022 showed the main structures progressively removed. The distinctive striped building had been dismantled by 2022.
The Sale Price
The approximately $6 million sale price reflected:
- The loss of the constructed improvements through demolition
- The stigma associated with the property’s history
- Limited pool of buyers given the specific controversy
- Costs associated with environmental remediation
Proceeds
Proceeds from the sale went to the estate and were distributed according to the settlement and creditor agreements that had been established through the various legal proceedings.
The End of the Compound
The sale of Little Saint James, combined with the pending sale proceedings for Great Saint James, effectively ended the Epstein island operation — the physical site of documented trafficking that was now in other hands.