Overview
In addition to his well-known private island Little Saint James, Jeffrey Epstein also owned Great Saint James — a larger adjacent island in the US Virgin Islands. His acquisition and development of Great Saint James became controversial and drew legal challenges from local authorities.
The Purchase
Epstein purchased Great Saint James island for approximately $22.5 million in 2016. The island is larger than Little Saint James and had been privately held. Its acquisition expanded Epstein’s territorial footprint in the USVI and raised concerns among neighbors and officials.
Development Plans and Violations
Epstein began construction and development on Great Saint James that drew complaints about environmental violations. The USVI government alleged that Epstein built structures without proper permits, violated environmental protection laws, and failed to comply with coastal development rules.
Legal Challenges
The US Virgin Islands government brought legal action against Epstein related to the Great Saint James development. These proceedings were ongoing when Epstein died in August 2019. The USVI’s broader lawsuit against his estate, filed in 2020, incorporated these violations as part of the government’s case that Epstein had operated with impunity in the territory.
Role in Estate Settlement
Both Little Saint James and Great Saint James were included in the Epstein estate’s asset base. As part of the 2024 settlement between the Epstein estate and the USVI (valued at approximately $105 million), the islands were transferred to the USVI government.
Significance
Great Saint James illustrated how Epstein leveraged his wealth and connections to expand his physical holdings even as legal troubles surrounded him. The island’s acquisition in 2016 — eight years after his 2008 plea deal — demonstrated his continued ability to operate and invest despite registered sex offender status.