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Inside Jeffrey Epstein’s private island: Newly released files expose dark history behind luxury retreat

Newly revealed documents expose how Jeffrey Epstein’s luxurious private island hid a chilling history of trafficking, secrecy, and abuse.

By NES Web Desk

Mar 14, 2026 19:36 IST

Aerial view of Little Saint James Island in the Caribbean

A small green island in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. From a distance, it appears to be paradise itself. But according to investigators, this island once became a horrific center of human trafficking and sexual abuse. This was American billionaire Jeffrey Epstein's private island—Little Saint James. Recently released government documents have revealed new information about this island. It states that wealthy and influential guests frequently visited Epstein's island.

Aerial view of Little Saint James Island in the Caribbean

According to one victim, in 2007, Google co-founder Sergey Brin and 23andMe co-founder Anne Wojcicki went there for a day. They claim they witnessed the fear and silence of the women on the island. But they said nothing.

Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York, where Jeffrey Epstein died in 2019.

Epstein died in a New York jail in 2019. After that, his property was sold off. Little Saint James and the adjacent Great Saint James island were sold together for approximately $60 million. A portion of that money was given as financial compensation to the victims.

Aerial view of Little Saint James Island in the Caribbean

According to researchers, this island was a major center of Epstein's women trafficking ring. Sociologists say the island was located in such a place where women could be completely isolated from the outside world. While it looked like a luxury resort from the outside, abuse occurred inside.

Jeffrey Epstein's private jet

Epstein bought the island in 1998 for approximately $8 million. The island is near Saint Thomas island in the US Virgin Islands. It could only be reached by boat or helicopter.

Aerial view of Little Saint James Island in the Caribbean

Within a few years, he transformed the island into a luxurious vacation spot. A personal theater, library, gym, swimming pool, and separate rooms for guests were built there. Later, even larger construction work began. A massive sundial and a strange temple-like structure were also built there.

Large sundial structure built on Little Saint James Island

The documents also reveal that Epstein spent enormous amounts of money decorating the island. He paid nearly $300,000 for a desk from the Liechtenstein royal family's collection. Additionally, ancient sculptures and artworks were kept there. The rules were strict to maintain the island's security and privacy. Staff had to wear specific uniforms and address Epstein or his guests as "Sir" or "Madam." When Epstein arrived on the island, he was given a special welcome.

Aerial view of St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands

But behind this luxury lay a horrific reality. According to investigators, for many years, underage girls and young women were brought there. Many were lured with promises of jobs or travel. One victim reported that she initially thought it was a normal trip. But after reaching the island, her passport was taken away and she was repeatedly abused.

Jeffrey Epstein with his associate Ghislaine Maxwell

Another case mentioned that a 15-year-old girl tried to escape from the island. She attempted to swim away from the island, but was later caught and brought back. The documents also state that Epstein's close associate Ghislaine Maxwell trained girls to fulfill Epstein's demands.

Large sundial structure built on Little Saint James Island

The story of this island is not just about one wealthy person's luxury. It shows how serious crimes can remain hidden for years behind power, money, and secrecy. Little Saint James remains a symbol of that dark history today. Beautiful like paradise from the outside, but for many, it was a horrific hell.

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