Question
What is the current status of Little Saint James Island?
Answer
Little Saint James Island — Epstein’s primary private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands — was sold by the Epstein estate in August 2022 as part of a broader settlement with the U.S. Virgin Islands government.
The sale: Both Little Saint James (roughly 75 acres) and neighboring Great Saint James (roughly 165 acres, purchased by Epstein in 2016) were sold together. The combined sale price was approximately $60 million, paid to the Epstein estate. Part of the settlement proceeds were directed toward victim compensation and to resolve the USVI’s civil lawsuit alleging that the islands were used to facilitate sex trafficking.
The buyer: The properties were purchased by real estate developer Stephen Deckoff through his firm Crossroads Real Estate. Reports indicated plans to develop the islands, though specifics were not disclosed. The islands have remained largely off the public radar since the sale.
The structures: The distinctive blue-and-white striped main residence, a guest villa, the controversial temple-like structure on the south end, outbuildings, helicopter pad, dock facilities, and extensive security infrastructure all remained standing at the time of the sale. Whether any have since been demolished or repurposed is not publicly confirmed.
The USVI settlement context: The U.S. Virgin Islands filed suit against the Epstein estate in 2020, alleging it had knowingly benefited from sex trafficking on the island and demanding disgorgement of profits. The settlement was reached in 2022 and resulted in approximately $105 million flowing to a victim compensation fund managed by the USVI.
Tourism and surveillance: During Epstein’s lifetime, the island was off-limits to outside vessels. There were reports of aggressive security responses to boats that came too close. The island had an airstrip, extensive security cameras, and was accessible primarily by helicopter or private boat.
Sources
Epstein estate sale filings; USVI settlement announcement (2022); media coverage of Crossroads Real Estate purchase; USVI lawsuit documentation.