Grammy-winning rapper Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar Cephus, popularly known as Cardi B, has been acquitted of all assault allegations in a $24 million civil lawsuit after a Los Angeles jury delivered a decisive ruling on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
The case, filed by a former security guard, Emani Ellis, stemmed from an alleged altercation in 2018 outside a Beverly Hills obstetrician’s office, where Ellis, who worked at the building as a guard, claimed the rapper attacked her.
Ellis alleged that Cardi B, who was pregnant at the time, scratched her face with fingernails, spat on her, and hurled racial slurs at her.
Taking the stand last week, Cardi B firmly denied the accusations, stating that the incident was strictly verbal.
According to the rapper, her anger arose from being filmed without consent during a private medical appointment.
Her defense was reinforced by testimonies from witnesses, including a receptionist and a doctor present at the clinic, who told the jury they saw no physical assault.
After less than an hour of deliberation, the jury unanimously sided with Cardi B, ruling her not liable for any of the alleged actions. Outside the courthouse, the rapper expressed relief and a strong stance against false claims.
“Even if I’m on my deathbed, I will say it never happened. I will never admit to something I did not do” She told reporters.
