Long Island Chef Who Worked for Jeffrey Epstein Claims No Knowledge of His Criminal Conduct

Francis Derby, a chef based in Greenport on Long Island, worked as Jeffrey Epstein’s personal cook from May to November 2012, according to newly released Department of Justice records.

The records show Derby’s name appears more than 1,300 times across the documents. Derby was employed at the Halyard Restaurant in Greenport and left his position on his own accord in November 2012.

In a statement provided to the media, Derby stated that he had no knowledge of who Epstein was or any allegations of misconduct when he accepted the job in May 2012. “My role was to procure food, plan meals, and provide culinary service,” he said. “My responsibilities were in the kitchen. My only time outside the kitchen was serving meals in the dining room and staff quarters, and I was directed to avoid common areas.”

The Department of Justice records indicate Derby traveled multiple times to Epstein’s private island, Little St. James, at Epstein’s request during his employment. Emails included in the documents show Derby discussing food preparation, storage, and transportation.

Epstein was convicted in 2008 on state prostitution-related charges and was required to register as a sex offender. He died in 2019 while in custody at a Manhattan jail.

Derby has denied any awareness of Epstein’s criminal activities during his employment.