Epstein Victim Fund in the USVI: USVI Claims Process

USVI VICTIM CLAIMS PROCESS Authority: USVI Attorney General Funding: $150 million from JPMorgan ($75M) and Deutsche Bank ($75M) settlements Date Established: 2023 PROGRAM OVERVIEW: The U.S. Virgin Islands established an independent victim claims process using the $150 million in combined settlement proceeds from JPMorgan Chase and Deutsche Bank. This was separate from the Epstein estate's Victims' Compensation Program. FUNDING ALLOCATION: The $150 million was allocated to: - Direct victim compensation - Programs supporting trafficking survivors in the USVI - Enhanced law enforcement capabilities - Educational and prevention programs - Administrative costs of the claims process ELIGIBILITY: The USVI program was open to: - Individuals who were sexually abused by Epstein in the USVI - Individuals who were trafficked to the USVI by Epstein or associates - Victims regardless of whether they participated in the estate's separate program - Claims were evaluated based on connection to USVI-based harm DIFFERENCES FROM ESTATE PROGRAM: The USVI claims process differed from the estate's VCP: - Funded by bank settlements rather than estate assets - Administered by the territorial government - Broader eligibility criteria focused on USVI connections - Additional funds directed to systemic reforms and prevention - Did not require release of claims against the banks (already settled) SIGNIFICANCE: The USVI program represented a territorial government using regulatory enforcement proceeds to directly benefit crime victims — a model that could be applied in future cases where financial institutions are found to have facilitated criminal enterprises. The program also reflected the USVI's unique position as the jurisdiction where Epstein's private island was located and where significant criminal activity allegedly occurred. Source: USVI AG / Claims Process Available at: https://www.courtlistener.com/