Cardi B Wins Civil Assault Lawsuit Denying Any Physical Contact
Cardi B has been cleared of liability in the civil lawsuit initiated by security guard Emani Ellis in 2020, which accused the rapper of assault two years prior.
On Tuesday, September 2, Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, known professionally as Cardi B, was acquitted of assault and battery charges in the civil proceedings filed against her.
“I want to thank my legal counsel,” the 32-year-old Cardi B declared at a press conference after the verdict was announced in court, as reported by TMZ.
She extended her gratitude to her fanbase, the jury members, and “everyone at home who supported me.”
Outside the courthouse, the musician once more asserted her innocence, stating, “I did not lay a hand on that woman.”
Details surrounding Cardi B's presence in court, and her security guard lawsuit, which was once slated for a 2025 trial, had been previously elucidated.
She then issued a clear warning to any individuals who might consider suing her in the future.
“This time around I’m going to be lenient,” Cardi B said.
“However, the next person who attempts to file a frivolous lawsuit against me will face a countersuit, and I will ensure you bear the financial consequences.”
Ellis brought the lawsuit against Cardi B in 2020, claiming the rapper assaulted her outside a Beverly Hills medical office in 2018.
Past reports also covered Cardi B’s strong reaction towards photographers when questioned about a potential pregnancy.
Ellis alleged that Cardi B, who was then four months pregnant with her first child, caused a cut on her face with her fingernail, uttered racial slurs, and spat on her during the alleged incident.
(Cardi B shares daughters Kulture, born in 2018, and Blossom, born in 2024, as well as son Wave, born in 2021, with her former husband, Offset.)
In the legal filing, Ellis accused Cardi B of assault and battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence, and false imprisonment following the event.
She further claimed that Cardi B “utilized her celebrity influence” to have Ellis dismissed from her employment.
Coverage also noted Cardi B's visible frustration during her testimony in the $24 million assault trial.
The “Drip” singer denied physically assaulting Ellis, maintaining that their interaction was purely a verbal disagreement.
Last month, Cardi B testified in the trial, asserting that Ellis was the one who instigated their altercation.
The musician claimed that Ellis followed her through the hallways of the doctor’s office and subsequently attempted to record her.
Cardi B stated during her August 26 testimony that she and Ellis were standing “chest to chest” and that she exclaimed, “B, get the f out of my face.”
While she admitted to shouting at the security guard, Cardi B maintained that their interaction never became physical.
