What is the status of Little Saint James island today?

Little Saint James, the 75-acre private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands that Epstein purchased in 1998, became subject to legal proceedings after his death and was sold in 2024.

After Epstein’s Death: The island became part of Epstein’s estate and was subject to ongoing litigation, particularly the USVI government’s lawsuit against the estate. The USVI filed suit in 2020, alleging Epstein had used the island as the primary base of his trafficking operation and that the territory’s government had been harmed.

The USVI Settlement: In November 2022, Epstein’s estate agreed to a settlement of over $105 million with the USVI. The settlement included provisions related to the disposition of Island properties and compensation for harm caused to the territory.

Sale of the Island: After years of legal proceedings, the island was listed for sale. It sold in 2024 for approximately $60–80 million. The sale was structured to ensure proceeds flowed to the estate and victim compensation.

The Structures: The distinctive blue-and-white striped building that drew widespread media attention (widely described as a “temple”) was reported to have been demolished or significantly altered in the years following Epstein’s death. Satellite imagery documented changes to the island’s structures over time.

Remediation Concerns: Environmental and human rights advocates raised questions about thorough documentation of the island before the sale, concerned that evidence could be lost. Some former employees and contractors claimed extensive underground structures existed beneath the main buildings.

Great Saint James: Epstein also owned the adjacent Great Saint James island. It was subject to separate proceedings and has also been sold as part of the estate wind-down.