House Democrats have released a set of previously unseen photos and videos from Jeffrey Epstein's private Caribbean island, offering a sharper look at the secretive spaces where the disgraced financier is alleged to have trafficked young girls.
The disclosure follows President Donald Trump's decision to sign a law compelling the Justice Department to release all Epstein-related files, expected within days.
What do the new images show?
The material, taken in 2020 by US Virgin Islands law enforcement, includes close-up views of Epstein's residence on Little St James. Bedrooms, bathrooms and what appears to be an office or study feature prominently. A chalkboard with words such as power, deception, plots and intellectual is visible, though some references have been redacted to protect women's identities.
One room contains a dentist's chair with masks hanging on the wall. A landline telephone shows first names-such as Darren, Rich, Mike, Patrick and Larry-labelled on speed-dial buttons. The videos present a sweeping walk-through of the property, capturing a swimming pool, palm trees and winding paths overlooking the ocean.
Why does the island matter?
Epstein owned two islands in the US Virgin Islands, including Little St James, which locals had long associated with his alleged exploitation of young girls. Authorities there previously reached a settlement worth over $100 million with Epstein's estate after alleging widespread trafficking, rape and assault involving dozens of victims.
Testimonies over the years have described the islands as central to Epstein's secretive network, with powerful acquaintances visiting his properties. One survivor, Virginia Giuffre, has written of suffering severe abuse on the island when she was 18.
What prompted the new release?
Democrats say they published the visuals to maintain pressure on the Trump administration ahead of a 19 December deadline for the Justice Department to disclose additional files. A bipartisan group of lawmakers has also asked Attorney General Pam Bondi for a status update.
The Oversight Committee has already secured documents from JP Morgan and Deutsche Bank and plans further releases. Members believe Epstein's financial trails and relationships in the Virgin Islands could reveal how he negotiated tax breaks, influenced local authorities and managed his operations out of public view.
What comes next in the investigation?
The committee is expanding its probe, with fresh requests for documents from the US Virgin Islands' attorney general. Investigators still hope to question Ghislaine Maxwell, though her lawyers say she will invoke her Fifth Amendment rights. Subpoenas issued to Bill and Hillary Clinton remain pending, with threats of contempt of Congress if they do not comply.
Lawmakers say the stream of photos, videos and financial documents is intended to assemble a fuller picture of Epstein's activities and ensure transparency as they continue pursuing accountability.