The Staffing Requirement
A functioning private island requires constant staffing. Little Saint James needed people to maintain the properties, manage the kitchen and domestic services, operate the boats, maintain mechanical and electrical systems, and provide security.
USVI Local Employment
Some staff were hired locally from the U.S. Virgin Islands. Local workers observed activities at the island over years and some had knowledge relevant to investigations.
The Confidentiality Requirement
Island employees were required to sign non-disclosure agreements. The NDA culture extended to all of Epstein’s household staff across his properties, but the island’s geographic isolation made enforcement and confidentiality maintenance particularly total.
What Staff Observed
Investigators attempting to build the 2019 case sought to interview island staff. Some were willing to cooperate; others were not, citing ongoing NDA obligations or fear of consequences.
Staff in Legal Proceedings
The USVI government’s lawsuit against the Epstein estate included claims relating to the operation of the island, including labor law violations. Staff members’ employment conditions were part of those claims.