A Los Angeles jury has cleared Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B of all allegations in a civil lawsuit filed by security guard Emani Ellis, who accused the star of assault, battery, and emotional distress. Ellis had sought $24 million in damages, claiming the rapper scratched her face with her long fingernails and spat on her during a heated confrontation outside an obstetrician’s office in 2018. At the time, Cardi B was secretly four months pregnant with her first child.
The incident unfolded when Ellis, who was working security at the building, allegedly followed and filmed the rapper, even sharing details of her confidential appointment over the phone. Cardi B testified that she demanded space and privacy, leading to a profanity-laced argument. The rapper denied ever physically attacking Ellis, insisting the altercation remained verbal. Her account was backed by her doctor and a receptionist, who testified that Ellis acted aggressively and even swung her arms during the encounter.
After only about an hour of deliberation, the jury unanimously sided with Cardi B, rejecting claims of assault, negligence, and false imprisonment. The rapper, whose real name is Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, told reporters afterward that she works hard to provide for her family and would not give in to opportunistic lawsuits. She also urged her fans not to harass Ellis or her family following the judgment.
Throughout the trial, Cardi B’s court appearances drew viral attention, with her wigs, outfits, and famously long nails becoming recurring points of discussion. Supporters also gathered outside the courthouse, including a local woman holding a playful sign that read: “If the nail don’t fit, u must acquit” — a pun on the infamous O.J. Simpson trial. Cardi B reportedly laughed after spotting the sign, adding a lighter moment to the high-profile case.
The ruling marks a decisive legal victory for Cardi B, who maintained that Ellis exaggerated the incident in pursuit of financial compensation. With the lawsuit behind her, the rapper is now focused on her career and family, while the verdict underscores the jury’s finding that no liability rested with her in the altercation.
