USVI as Operational Base
Little Saint James Island and St. Thomas were central to Jeffrey Epstein’s operations. His presence as a property owner and EDC participant made him a significant economic actor in the USVI.
The EDC Approval Process
Receiving EDC benefits required approval from the Economic Development Commission, which involved interactions with USVI government officials. Epstein navigated this process successfully over many years.
Community Presence
Epstein employed local USVI residents, purchased supplies locally, and was a visible economic presence. His island required staff and ongoing services from the territory.
Post-2019 USVI Action
After Epstein’s death, the USVI government under Attorney General Denise George took the most aggressive legal action of any U.S. jurisdiction. George filed suit against the Epstein estate and later against JPMorgan and Deutsche Bank.
Denise George’s Firing
Attorney General Denise George was fired by USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr. in January 2023, shortly after filing suit against JPMorgan. The firing raised questions about political interference in the case.