Cardi B Found Not Liable in $24 Million Civil Assault Lawsuit
A California jury has unanimously cleared Cardi B, real name Belcalis Almanzar, of all allegations in a high-profile civil lawsuit filed by former security guard Emani Ellis. The case stemmed from an alleged 2018 assault outside a Beverly Hills doctor’s office when Cardi B was secretly pregnant.
Allegations vs. Verdict
The lawsuit sought $24 million in damages, with Ellis claiming the rapper scratched her face with long fingernails, spat on her, and caused emotional and financial harm, including a scar needing surgery and job loss.
The jury deliberated for under an hour before delivering a verdict in Cardi B’s favor.
Supporting testimonies, including from a receptionist and the attending doctor, indicated no physical violence occurred.
Cardi B’s Courtroom Presence & Public Reaction
Cardi defended herself fervently, denying ever physically touching Ellis. She noted that the security guard appeared to be filming her without consent, escalating a verbal confrontation.
After the verdict, Cardi spoke emotionally outside the courthouse, stating:
“Even if I’m at my deathbed…I swear to God, I did not touch that woman.”
She expressed frustration over missed milestones in her children’s lives due to the trial and vowed to push back against future frivolous lawsuits.
Post-Trial Confrontation
Following the verdict, Cardi B confronted a reporter whose question about her personal life, specifically pregnancy rumors and paternity, prompted a sharp response. She defended herself by saying:
“Stop disrespecting me…Act like you have some manners. And your mama taught you to respect women.”
She reportedly threw a pen in reaction to the query.