Full Breakdown
Stephen Deckoff Confronts Trespassers on Former Epstein Islands
5/14/2026, 6:30:34 AM
Private Purchase and Ongoing Intrusions
Stephen Deckoff, founder of Black Diamond Capital Management, bought Little St. James and Great St. James in 2023 for $60 million. Since then, jet-ski riders, drone operators and activists have trespassed, leading to confrontations with staff. Anti-trafficking activist Ben Owen faces arraignment on May 15 for alleged trespass.
Legacy of the Islands
Jeffrey Epstein owned Little St. James until his 2019 death, keeping the property a focal point for curiosity. Deckoff says he plans a luxury resort, not yet underway.
Reported Encounters
Witnesses describe a visitor hog-tied naked, another bound with duct tape and blindfolded in an underground bunker, and a YouTuber aborting a beach landing after sea-urchin stings. Owen tried to plant a “We Fight Monsters” flag and was later charged. Other reports involve drone retrieval, YouTubers seeking millions of views, and a man brandishing a samurai sword.
Official Statements & Responses
The spokesperson said owners never met Epstein, will not tolerate threats to staff, and are cooperating with police. Police note staff have performed “lawful citizen arrests” when trespasses occur, and owners will pursue legal remedies.
Criticism & Opposition
Jessica Owen, Ben Owen’s wife, argued a multimillion-dollar purchase deserves privacy while noting the island’s history invites attention. Anti-trafficking groups see the publicity as a chance to highlight exploitation concerns.
Financial Context
Deckoff’s $60 million purchase was under half the prior asking price. In 2021, former Goldman Sachs equities-trading head Michael Daffey bought Epstein’s Manhattan townhouse for $51 million, citing confidence in New York’s future. Black Diamond manages about $11 billion in assets.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Allegations of duct-tape restraint and underground confinement come from Owen’s wife and police filings; the spokesperson denies mistreatment of anyone who “threatened the safety of those lawfully on the island.” No public evidence confirms the resort’s construction.
Significance
The incidents show challenges of securing high-profile private property amid public fascination and digital documentation. Legal outcomes may shape how authorities address trespass on well-known estates.
Outlook
Ben Owen’s arraignment is set for May 15, with a plea pending. Deckoff’s resort plans remain unconfirmed, while owners seek court orders against unauthorized visitors.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The owners have made, and will continue to make, lawful citizens arrests if these trespasses continue,” — Property spokesperson, Black Diamond
- “If I bought an island for millions of dollars, I would want my own privacy,” — Jessica Owen, spouse of activist Ben Owen
- “But if I bought an island that horrendous things were done on and global attention had been on, I would expect people to come to the island.” — Jessica Owen
- “Epstein could literally be right there bro,” — Unnamed YouTuber, documentary footage
