Category Archives: Private Islands

The pool was thought to have been built between 2003 and 2007 but had no building consent, nor was it registered with the council as required.

The council found out about the pool in 2020 and a site visit in November 2020 confirmed the lack of fencing.

Between November 2020 and July 2024, the council issued five Notices to Fix for the fencing, said Kevin Johnson, council group manager for delivery and operations. A Notice to Fix is a legal document requiring work to be done.

The owners applied to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment for an exemption to the rules, arguing the barrier was impractical at this unique location.

They argued the pool is on a remote, offshore island with no unannounced visitors; there are durability issues for fencing as the pool gets washed by seawater; the pool is a holding tank for fire protection and a fence could inhibit this; and that the sea right next to the pool creates a greater risk for children.

The owners said they and their teenage children had only visited the island once in two years, and 99.9% of the time the island is occupied only by the caretaker and their partner.

But in a decision just released by the ministry, principal adviser for determinations Andrew Eames found the law is clear that every residential pool must have barriers to stop access by unsupervised children under 5.

While he acknowledged the location of the pool on an offshore private island close to the sea is somewhat unique, he said the lack of fencing would significantly increase the risk of injury or death.

Eames decided that while the current owners do not have any young children, children were likely to visit at some time during the life of the building.

He also found concerns about durability and the pool being part of a fire protection plan and were not enough to void the fencing requirement.

The decision requiring the fencing has been backed by Water Safety New Zealand, which said 38 children under 5 have drowned in home pools in the last 20 years, including 12 deaths in pools with no fencing at all.

Chief executive Daniel Gerrard said pools remain the most common location for drownings of children under 5.

Strong regulatory interventions that require proven physical safety mechanisms are the only recognised, and irreplaceable, measures that will protect children around water.

While Gerrard recognised New Zealand has significant water hazards, people are more likely to ease supervision in a home, due to being relaxed in that situation.

This is supported by the data: while 38 children drowned in pools in the last 20 years, 14 drowned in rivers and two drowned at beaches.

Fencing around pools has been enforced in New Zealand since 1987 and has reduced child pool deaths by 79% since the 1980s, Gerrard said.

Compliance with the fencing rules has been shown to be higher in areas where councils proactively and regularly monitor compliance, he explained.

Local hap Ngti Kura has long fought for ownership of Motukawaiti, including trying to overturn the original sale in 1912 and more recently filing a claim with the Waitangi Tribunal.

The islands ownership was also subject to a five-year investigation by the Overseas Investment Office, after ownership was surrendered to Chinese citizen Jun Zhang in 2013 as part of a loan default, despite him not getting government approval to buy the island.

The Overseas Investment Office eventually found there was insufficient evidence to prosecute.

From 2014-22, the island was marketed for sale on and off, starting with a price tag of $30m. The price was later dropped to $22m and eventually reduced to $10.6m after squatters ruined the property while the owner was overseas.

When Trustee Services bought the island in 2022, the family said they would work with Ngti Kura for advice on planting and protecting the surrounding marine environment.

Denise Piper is a news reporter for the Northern Advocate, focusing on health and business. She has more than 20 years in journalism and is passionate about covering stories that make a difference.

Read the original here:

Private island site no excuse for not fencing swimming pool in Far North - New Zealand Herald

When it comes to the crme de la crme of luxury travel, private island resorts often reign supreme especially for those who wish to experience real seclusion, intimacy, and exclusivity.

Accessible by speedboat or seaplane, these private islands boast unspoiled beauty and offer a sanctuary far removed from the everyday. If you want to get away from it all, book yourself into these five remote resorts that are the epitome of a tropical paradise:

Tucked away on the serene island of Pamalican, this luxury resort comes with powdery white sands and vibrant coral gardens. Designed by the celebrated Filipino architect Francisco Maosa, the resort features just 42 Casitas and 18 Villas, each a masterpiece of tropical elegance. If you're fortunate, you may even witness the magical sight of green and hawksbill turtle hatchlings making their journey under the moonlit sky to the vast ocean during nesting season from March to October.

Book Amanpulo on the MICHELIN Guide

The private luxury island getaway features 141 sea-view rooms, suites, beachfront, and overwater pool villas, alongside an impressive 800 metres of golden shoreline. With amenities like a surf pool, VIP cinema, bowling alley, mini golf course, and a world-class spa, guests will find endless activities to enjoy. It's also a family-friendly resort, ensuring kids have a blast with a variety of exciting and enjoyable activities available on the island every day, including arts and crafts, cooking classes, and even billiards.

Book Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara on the MICHELIN Guide

Located on the remote Thaa Atoll in the Maldives, the wellness-oriented resort is just a 60-minute seaplane ride from Mal, offering a scenic journey over the region's stunning array of atolls. Tropical minimalism sets the tone at this resort, characterised by thatched roofs and shades of blue, where encounters with marine life are a daily delight from snorkelling among colourful fish and exploring vibrant coral reefs, to leisurely dolphin cruises and spotting turtles and friendly sharks near the restaurant at sunset. It's a remarkable and secluded getaway, with an option for added privacy: booking a fully catered picnic on a smaller, nearby private island arranged by the resort.

Book COMO Maalifushi on the MICHELIN Guide

Song Saa Private Island, nestled in Cambodia's Koh Rong archipelago, effortlessly encapsulates this natural beauty with its overwater villas on stilts and an array of water-based experiences.The brainchild of Australian couple Rory and Melita Hunter, the resort is also committed to supporting local communities, monitoring coral reefs, providing medical care, promoting effective waste management, and launching educational programmes. Now, sit back, relax, and soak it all in.

Book Song Saa Private Island on the MICHELIN Guide

Since its debut in 2021 as the Singaporean hotel groups inaugural venture in India, this property has been a resounding success. Spanning 21 acres on a lush island teeming with birdlife and exotic flora, the resort offers spacious rooms and suites that seamlessly blend Indian and European influences. Some accommodations feature private pools and gardens, providing a tranquil retreat with panoramic vistas of the Baroque garden and the lake. Expect to spend your days lounging by the pool, playing rounds of golf and cricket, or pampering yourself with the luxurious amenities of the 12,000 square foot spa.

Book Raffles Udaipur on the MICHELIN Guide

These five-star resorts promise an unforgettable stay, where the soothing sounds of the sea, gentle breezes, and rustling palm leaves create a symphony of serenity.

Written by Faye Bradley

Faye Bradley is a Hong Kong-based food, travel, and lifestyle writer who contributes to several local and international publications. With a passion for discovering new places, Faye is always on the lookout for hot openings and up-and-coming destinations steeped in culture, history, and heritage with her compass often being guided by the aromatic allure of culinary experiences.

View original post here:

Retreat to a Private Island with These MICHELIN Guide Hotels in Asia - MICHELIN Guide

A beautiful, private island in Michigan? Sign. Me. Up.

Middle Island, a 227 acre island in Lake Huron is on the market!

READ MORE: Stunning Beachfront Mansion For Sale in South Haven

It's called Middle Island because it'ssituated almost exactly midway between Thunder Bay Island and Presque Isle Harbor,off the coast of Alpena.

A working, historic lighthouse is included!TheMiddle Island Light Stationwas built in 1905. It standsseventy-six-feet-tall, and the light has a 14-mile range.

Nate Graham, Graham Real Estate

It's maintained by the Coast Guard and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2006. Check out that view!

According to thelisting, "views from the lighthouse are unobstructed 360 degrees above of Lake Huron."

Nate Graham, Graham Real Estate

As far as lodging, there's a Lighthouse keepers two-story red brick double dwelling with a new roof and 12 rooms at various stages of renovation - so yes, it needs some work... but still, that's a lot of space!

UP NEXT: Unique Bank House For Sale in Traverse City

In addition, the Fog Signal building has been converted intoa lodge that sleeps 10.

Other cool features of the property are a 380-footpermanent break wall/dock, a hunting blind, and observation tower!

Two track circles the island and provides access to the lighthouse.

So how much are we talking for this private island paradise?

Middle Island is on the market for $3.9 million. Check out photos in the gallery below!

Gallery Credit: Janna

Here are even more Michigan islands that have been on the market recently:

Island living in Michigan can be your reality with this Battle Creek 2 home package. On land, you'll have a lakeside 1000-square-foot home as "basecamp" complete with 6 car garage for storing all those water toys. Hop on one of your docked boats and head out to your own private 2.5-acre island to settle into your 5000-square-foot home for some island fun with plenty of room for guests. Inside awaits 4 bedrooms, 4 1/2 bathrooms, and plenty of space to entertain with gorgeous panoramic views from every room. The current owners are willing to sell turn-key with water toys and boats included. Take a look!

Gallery Credit: Zillow

No, it's not Montana or even the set of "Yellowstone". This breathtaking million-dollar retreat is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan near the Wisconsin border and is everything a nature lover has dreamt of. With its 16 acres of wilderness and lakeside beauty, any fisherman or someone looking to escape from it all would simply love it. Over 10,000 square feet of space with 7 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms, this log home Island family retreat on the famous Cisco Chain of Lakes is meant for large family get-togethers and big gatherings.

Take a look at what tranquility and heaven on earth really look like.

Gallery Credit: Zillow

A private island, with a home included, is now listed for sale in Eau Claire, Michigan

Gallery Credit: Zillow

For $575,000 you could own Frying Pan Island, a 3-acre island that sits in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Gallery Credit: Zillow

View post:

Private Paradise: You Could Own This Michigan Island with Historic Lighthouse - 97.9 WGRD

Pumpkin Key off the southern coast of Florida

If youve been searching for the perfect private island that balances seclusion without isolation, its your lucky day.

A 26-acre island off the southern coast of Florida, known as Pumpkin Key, is back on the market for a discounted price of $75 million. It failed to sell when it was listed for $95 million in 2020.

The small paradise is nestled in Floridas Card Bay, between Key Largo and the mainland. According to thelisting by Compass, there is a home on the island, referred to as the pool home, three caretaker apartments, a 23-slip marina that can accommodate a mega-yacht, and a dock masters office.

In the center of the island are tennis courts that can convert into a helipad in case you want to take a quick trip to Miami. There are also golf cart paths that circle the island and standard amenities, like internet, running water and electricity.

According to the listing, the island features 12 developable waterfront lots in case youre interested in building a private compound.

The price tag also includes a waterfront mainland home in Key Largos Ocean Reef Club, pictured below, that is a four-minute boat ride from the private island with a 100-foot dock.

The private community has its own airport for private jets, a member-only hotel, restaurants, another marina and two 18-hole golf courses. However, youll have to abide by a strictdress codewhen youre taking advantage of the community amenities.

The listing agent, Liz Hogan, toldUSA Todaythe current owners of the estate are from the Midwest and have used it as a family compound, but the familys generations are now growing out of it.

There are over two dozen private islands for sale across the U.S., according toa website that tracks them.

Original post:

You could own this private island off the Florida Keys for $75 million - AOL

Developer says complaint lacks merit, expects a judge to dismiss

JDS Development 's Michael Stern (JDS Development, Aktug Ates via Wikimedia Commons, Getty)

Michael Sterns JDS Development may be headed for a hard landing over some flight bills.

The company was sued this week by a charter flight company that alleged the developer failed to pay for private flights that jetted Stern and his associates between Florida, New York and the Caribbean Islands in 2022 and 2023.

The developer owes more than $1.2 million to Hawthorne Finance Holdings, which owned the New York-based charter service ExcelAire until it sold the company last summer. Hawthorne retained ownership of the businesss accounts receivable as part of the sale agreement, and is now trying to collect what it calls unpaid bills in court.

The complaint is wholly without merit and we expect it to be dismissed, said a legal representative of JDS. Stern declined to comment.

Stern is the ambitious developer behind the Brooklyn Tower, now the tallest building in New York City outside of Manhattan, the Steinway Tower on Billionaires Row and 888 Brickell, a supertall Miami condo tower to be branded by Dolce & Gabbana.

It was a month after the fashion company was reported to be a partner in his Brickell residences that Stern flew from Miami to St. Barts and St. Martin, according to Hawthornes legal filings. The company claims JDS has tried to escape paying for private travel to the pricey Caribbean vacation destinations.

In 2022, as JDS was fighting a legal battle to win approval to build a 500,000-square-foot residential tower at 247 Cherry Street in Manhattans Two Bridges neighborhood, Stern flew from Miami to Teterboro Airport and stayed in New York for about a week, according to a list of travel costs that Hawthorne alleges went unpaid. Other expenses include fuel costs, hangar fees, a per diem for pilots and aircraft maintenance.

Sterns preferred transport was an Embraer Legacy 600, a midsize jet that can fly up to 14 people and cross 3,400 nautical miles at a cruising speed of about 500 miles per hour. With two Rolls Royce engines, the plane can reach as far as London, Alaska or Peru from New York.

In an exchange of emails between Hawthorne and Stern, the developer identified $68,000 in duplicative charges while going thru the bills, but he apparently ceased communication with the company without paying the balance it alleges he owes.

Representatives for Hawthorne did not return requests for comment. The charter flight company ExcelAire now operates under different ownership as Executive Fliteways.

More:

Michael Stern's JDS Development Sued Over Private Air Travel - The Real Deal

YouTube sensation MrBeast recently took his adventurous spirit to the seas, specifically to Royal Caribbean Internationals private island resort, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The hugely popular vlogger, philanthropist, and content creator went to the cruise lines private island for his newest video, titled $1 vs $250,000,000 Private Island!

The event coincided with the launch of Royal Caribbean Internationals Icon of the Seas, the largest cruise ship ever built, which was christened in Miami on January 24. Icon of the Seas set sail on January 27, the same day the video from MrBeast was released.

Perfect Day at CocoCay, typically bustling with up to 13,000 guests from Royal Caribbeans cruise ships, witnessed an unusual day of exploration and fun led by MrBeast and his team.

The vlogger, three friends, and a production crew spent a day immersing themselves in all the island had to offer. Their journey was part of their latest YouTube video, titled $1 vs $250,000,000 Private Island! MrBeasts latest adventure takes viewers on an extravagant tour of private islands, each escalating in luxury and price, culminating at Perfect Day at CocoCay, located in the Bahamas.

The video starts humbly with a $1 island, a stark contrast to the opulence that follows. The journey includes stops at Monkey Island, better known as Urraca Private Island, Panama, a $1 million haven. This is followed by a $5 million frozen wonderland; a $16 million luxury retreat; and a $45 million island with ancient ruins.

Before heading to the Bahamas, the group stops at a $150 million eco-friendly paradise, Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands; owned by Virgin Voyages owner Richard Branson. The final stop is at the $250 million island extravaganza that is Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The video, which amassed an impressive 65,819,000 views within just two days of its posting on January 27, 2024, offers viewers a glimpse into the high-end amenities and experiences of Perfect Day at CocoCay.

From thrilling slides to serene pools and bays, the footage showcases the diverse attractions of the island. CocoCay has no less than 13 water slides, including North Americas tallest water slide named Daredevils Peak, and an array of water sports and games.Theres also the Oasis Lagoon, which is the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

In the video, the group also goes down the 1600-feet zip-line, ride jet skis, and a glimpse of Hideaway Beach. This exclusive part of the island opened up in January 2024 and is only accessible to adults aged 18 and up.

Even the lifeguards on the island were invited to join in the fun. There was more than enough time to do so, as MrBeast and his team were the only guests on the island for the entire day and evening.

With two Royal Caribbean cruise ships spending 8-10 hours at CocoCay daily, and around 2 million visitors in 2022, the chances of being alone on the island are extremely small. Unless you are the worlds most-viewed YouTuber.

MrBeast, a household name in the YouTube community, is renowned for his extravagant stunts, philanthropic endeavors, and captivating content. Starting his YouTube journey in 2012, he has since amassed a global audience with his unique blend of entertainment and generosity.

The cooperation between MrBeast and Royal Caribbean is no surprise, given the launch of Icon of the Seas on the same day as the videos release.

The timing of this adventurous takeover was impeccably aligned with the maiden voyage of Icon of the Seas, which set sail on January 27. Christened in Miami on January 24, 2024, by Lionel Messi, this groundbreaking 5,610-passenger cruise ship represents a milestone for Royal Caribbean International.

The collaboration with MrBeast for his Perfect Day at CocoCay adventure is a strategic move to generate buzz and interest around the launch of the vessel and Royal Caribbeans amenities at Perfect Day, although this might have been overkill given the huge amount of attention that Icon of the Seas has created.

Its also not the first time that Royal Caribbean International and MrBeast have worked together. In June 2023, MrBeast and Royal Caribbean International collaborated on a video showcasing Harmony of the Seas during a video in which MrBeast explored the worlds most exclusive yachts.

Icon of the Seas first cruise set sail from Miami, Florida, on January 27. On January 30, she will make her first-ever port call with guests as she sails to Basseterre, St. Kitts.

Read more from the original source:

YouTube Star MrBeast Takes Over Royal Caribbean's Private Island - Cruise Hive

Summary

Exploring picturesque islands does not require leaving the United States, as the 50 states and five territories offer diverse options for island enthusiasts. From the pristine beaches of St Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands to the scenic shores of Florida, these top U.S. islands cater to various preferences. Contrary to common perception, renting an island does not necessitate extreme wealth, as several affordable private islands are available for rental in the US. While private islands often evoke images of distant paradises for celebrities and elites, affordable hidden gems worldwide are accessible to those seeking a unique island getaway. Here are 7 private islands in the U.S. that vacationers can book for less than $1,000 a night.

Sunset over Pelican Lake in Minnesota

Strand Island Lodge, situated on Pelican Lake, is an ideal retreat for large groups, accommodating up to 20 guests. The main house boasts nine bedrooms, complemented by an additional log cabin and sauna. The log cabin provides four single beds for added comfort. Vacationers can enhance their experience by renting boats and enjoying kayaking adventures. With average rates at $930 per night, the lodge offers a spacious and well-equipped private island getaway, ensuring an unforgettable stay for groups seeking both relaxation and water-based activities.

For an idyllic East Coast getaway, Spruce Island, an 80-acre private haven off Deer Isle/Stonington, Maine, awaits. The Stone House, comprised of two buildings, offers weekly rentals in the summer and shorter stays off-season, comfortably accommodating 18 people, with more possible with prior arrangements. Embracing New England traditions, vacationers can partake in lobster bakes and water sports, utilizing complimentary kayaks and rowboats. Spruce Island provides a quintessential East Coast experience for less than $1,000 a night, blending natural beauty with the charm of Maine's coastal traditions for a memorable and immersive vacation.

The Private Islands of Old House Cay offer an extraordinary experience with the rental encompassing not just one but three private islands, all available for the affordable rate of $536 per night. Located just 10 minutes from Hilton Head, this archipelago provides a secluded retreat that feels like a world apart. The primary island, part of the rental package, features a modern, off-the-grid home equipped with all the creature comforts, ensuring a relaxing getaway in the midst of nature's tranquility and scenic beauty.

Vacationers looking to rent a private island for less than $1,000 per night can say goodbye to the dilemma of leaving their furry companion behind when vacationing on Dogatraz Island, a pet-friendly haven on Lake Iroquois, merely 10 minutes from the shore by canoe. Guests accommodation, a two-bedroom house, ensures a comfortable stay, while the island offers ample opportunities for swimming and witnessing breathtaking sunsets after a day in the sun. This pet-inclusive private island experience can be theirs for an average nightly rate of $409, providing them and their four-legged friend with a memorable and enjoyable getaway.

Beautiful wetlands next to Juggler Lake in Becker County, Minnesota

Nestled within Juggler Lake is an enchanting 18-acre private island boasting an A-frame cabin accommodating up to 10 guests. The cabin provides a picturesque retreat, complete with a floating dock for refreshing swims. Priced at approximately $399 per night, the private island offers an affordable escape. For those eager to explore the lake further, the option to rent a pontoon for an additional $300 per stay adds an extra layer of adventure, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience in this idyllic setting.

Core Sound's waters surrounding Sands Island, North Carolina

Discover the charm of Sands Island in North Carolina, featuring a two-bedroom cottage that comfortably accommodates up to five guests. With 23 acres of picturesque land, the island provides a serene retreat at an average nightly rate of $350. Despite its secluded setting, Sands Island offers the best of both worlds guests can enjoy the tranquility of the island while having easy access to nearby bars and restaurants, just a short kayak ride away. This private island escape combines natural beauty with the convenience of nearby entertainment options.

Why camp when vacationers can rent Dodd Island, a private 7-acre retreat in Douglas State Forest, for almost the same price as a campground spot? With a capacity for eight people, the cost drops to just $34 per person per night. Situated on Whitin Reservoir, this affordable private island provides a unique escape, surrounded by a warm and shallow lake with impressive 40ft visibility, making it a snorkeler's and diver's paradise. Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature without compromising on comfort on this budget-friendly island.

Read the rest here:

7 Private Islands In The U.S. That You Can Book For Less Than $1,000 A Night - TheTravel

The private Peter Islands Resort facility has finally commenced taking reservations since being in a state of rebuilding after the island was ravaged by Hurricane Irma of 2017.

In a Facebook post on January 17, 2024, the report stated, Were excited to welcome you back to the newly reimagined Peter Island Resort in 2024! We have been, and continue to be, hard at work crafting and curating a private island resort experience that will be nothing short of extraordinary.

The Resort, which was once featured as one of the top 5 places to visit in the Virgin Islands, was hit badly by the hurricanes which impacted not only the facility, but the staff there.

Since 2017, the resort in a Facebook update had shared that until they are confident of providing good service to its valued guests, no reservations for future bookings would be made.

Lee Yan is a journalist based in Cebu, Philippines. For the past 10 years, he has worked in the media and writes part-time for the St. Vincent Times.

Read more:

Peter Island Resort Re-Opens with Luxurious New Amenities in 2024 - St Vincent Times

One of the islands was bought by Jeffrey Epstein in 1998 for $8 million.

The controversial islands owned by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein will soon be turned into a resort, according to a report in New York Post. The real estate in the Caribbean, known informally as "Paedophile Islands", is one of the places where Epstein reportedly held sex parties. As per Forbes, the islands were bought by billionaire Stephen Deckoff, founder of private equity firm Black Diamond Capital Management, for $60 million in May 2023. The outlet said that Great St. James and Little St. James were on the market for more than year.

The Post said in its report that the island resort will be inaugurated in 2025.

They were initially listed for $125 million in 2021, with the bulk of the proceeds supporting compensation efforts for Epstein's victims.

Mr Deckoff had told Forbes that the resort will have 25 rooms. The property spans more than 230 acres - 70-plus-acre in Little St. James and 160-plus-acre in Great St. James. It is located just off the shores of tourism hub St. Thomas and already boasts a helipad, multiple pools and several guest villas.

"I very much look forward to working with the US Virgin Islands to make this dream a reality," the billionaire had said after the deal was widely reported.

Epstein's ownership had cast a dark shadow over the islands. The disgraced financier had bought them in 1998 for $8 million. Since his death, several women have come forward to say they were trafficked to the islands and abused.

Their accounts were revealed when a New York judge unsealed documents related to Epstein. The documents, which include almost 1,000 pages of depositions and statements, were former US presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, who have not been accused of any wrongdoing in the case.

The disclosure is part of a defamation proceeding between Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell, sentenced in 2022 to 20 years in prison, and a plaintiff against the duo, Virginia Giuffre.

Epstein, a financier with a powerful network in the United States and abroad, was himself accused of raping young girls, but his suicide by hanging in a New York prison in August 2019 halted his prosecution.

Read the original:

Jeffrey Epstein's Controversial Private Island To Be Turned Into Resort: Report - NDTV

Court documents unsealed on Wednesday revealed dozens of people with a wide variety of connections to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. The names in the documents include accusers of Epstein, staff members and business associates, many of whom gave depositions about Epstein, who over many years allegedly exploited underage girls for sex at his homes in Manhattan; Palm Beach, Florida; and his private island near St. Thomas. Being named in the court documents is not an indication of wrongdoing.

Where exactly is Little St. James, Epstein's private island, and what did he do there?

Called Little St. James, Epstein's 72-acre island included several villas and is about 2 miles off the coast of St. Thomas, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. Epstein had stakes in businesses in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including Hyperion Air.

A boat with the letters LSJ was used to ferry staff members and supplies to Little St. James, a harbor employee told CBS News in 2020.

While Epstein made donations to U.S. Virgin Islands government officials and schools, some said he still did not have the best reputation in the area.

U.S. Virgin Islands Attorney General Denise George told CBS News in 2020 that she did not "think he was regarded as an upstanding member of the community."

"It was public knowledge that he was a registered sex offender," she said.

In 2019, Epstein died in a New York prison after being charged by federal prosecutors of sex trafficking conspiracy and one count of sex trafficking with underage girls. He had pleaded not guilty and his death in prison before facing trial was ruled a suicide.

George became attorney general after Epstein's death and her office sued his estate, ultimately garnering a $105 million settlement on behalf of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

George said the island was a place for Epstein to hide his criminal activity and when asked in 2020 why she was pursuing a lawsuit after his death, she answered: "Why not now?"

"I cannot speak to what happened in the past," she said. "What I do know is that because of Epstein's wealth and power he was able to conceal a lot of this."

Epstein would fly into St. Thomas on a private jet which "helps with the concealment," George said. From there, he would use two helicopters from Hyperion Air "to transport young women and underage girls between St. Thomas and Little St. James," according to George's lawsuit.

Some air traffic controllers and other airport personnel reported seeing Epstein with girls who appeared they might be preteen, according to the complaint.

When he was alive, authorities were stopped at the dock and told they could not enter the private property, George said.

"Remember, he owns a whole island," she said. "So it wasn't a situation where a child or a young woman would be able to just break away and run down the street to the nearest police station."

One 15-year-old alleged victim, however, tried to escape Little St. James by swimming, according to the lawsuit.

An alleged victim who spoke to CBS News on the condition of anonymity said Epstein brought her St. Thomas and raped her in his office there. "He also trapped me in his bedroom on the island where he had a gun strapped to his bedpost. I couldn't leave. The only means of getting off the island was either helicopter or boat."

Before he faced sex trafficking charges in 2019, Epstein cut a deal with prosecutors in 2008 after pleading guilty to two state charges of soliciting prostitution from a minor in Florida.

Under the non-prosecution agreement, Epstein pleaded guilty to lesser state charges and served 13 months in jail spending most of that time on work release and paid settlements to victims. He also had to register as a sex offender.

News of the deal reached the U.S. Virgin islands, and charter boat Captain Jim Query told CBS News in 2020 there was talk that Epstein had "gotten some crazy sweetheart deal."

"We were always just told it was a super short sentence and maybe some time of house arrest," Query said. "I never knew if that was true on the island but that there was basically little to no penalty."

Some people have even referred to Little St. James as "Pedophile Island."

The documents released this week do not contain an actual list of Epstein associates, just names of people connected to the case in some way. However, the flight logs of Epstein's private jet, called "Lolita Express," and other documents have been made public in the past. The plane was often used to fly to the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Many of those who had ties to Epstein have denied any misconduct or involvement in his activities.

In May, Forbes first reported billionaire Stephen Deckoff bought Little St. James and neighboring 160-acre Great St. James, both formerly owned by Epstein, for $60 million. Multiple villas, pools and a helipad sit on the islands.

Deckoff, founder of private equity firm Black Diamond Capital Management, plans to develop a "state-of-the-art, five-star, world-class luxury 25-room resort" on the islands to open in 2025, according to a news release about the acquisition.

View post:

Where is Jeffrey Epstein's island and what happened there? - KRTV NEWS Great Falls