U.S. Democrats have published photographs of Jeffrey Epstein’s private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, revealing interior rooms and alleged crime scenes, with a deadline to release more documents by December 19.
Insight into the crime scene
The released photographs show interiors of Epstein’s estate—bedrooms, an office, a library, a phone with partially blurred contacts, and a board with cryptic codes. One room resembles a dental office, complete with a chair and facial masks on the walls. The footage also walks through the property, and the images were seized by U.S. authorities in the Virgin Islands in 2020, one year after Epstein’s suicide in prison.
Island of terror
Epstein owned two islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands. His more infamous property, Little St. James, came to be nicknamed “pedophile island.” In 2022 the territory’s authorities settled with the former owner for more than $100 million. A lawsuit alleges that dozens of young women and children were trafficked, raped, molested and held there.
Congress increases pressure
Although the photographs do not reveal new facts, Democrats argue that publishing them forces the Department of Justice to release all documents related to Epstein. The DOJ deadline to submit the files is December 19. Representative Robert Garcia said the committee has already received financial documents from JPMorgan and Deutsche Bank, which will be disclosed in the coming days.
Island of shame
The island has been described as both “Doll Island” and the “Island of Shame,” and investigations point to it operating as a sex‑trafficking hub since 1998. New congressional releases aim to bring the public closer to a complete list of visitors tied to alleged crimes. The case has stirred controversy in the U.S., with former President Donald Trump once alleged to have been involved. Trump, who was acquainted with Epstein, originally promised to declassify documents during his campaign, withdrew the pledge, but in November announced new material would be declassified.
Polish angle
Polish journalist Marek Wałkuski shared photographs, one of which shows Epstein shaking hands with Pope John Paul II, sparking online debate.