Cardi B not liable after jury rejects $24M civil assault lawsuit filed by ex-security guard Emani Ellis.
Ellis had sought $24 million in damages, but the ruling brought the nearly seven-year-long legal saga to a dramatic close—with zero dollars awarded and Cardi walking out vindicated.
A Disputed 2018 Incident
The incident in question took place in February 2018 outside an obstetrician’s office in Beverly Hills, while Cardi B was four months pregnant and had not yet made the news public. Ellis accused the rapper of spitting on her, scratching her cheek with a fingernail, and Using racial slurs during the exchange.
Cardi B categorically denied the physical assault, stating the altercation began when Ellis allegedly began filming her without consent, which prompted a verbal confrontation—but never escalated to violence.
A key eyewitness, an office receptionist, corroborated Cardi’s account, testifying that no physical contact occurred during the incident.
Cardi B Speaks Out After Verdict
After the jury’s decision, Cardi B wasted no time asserting her innocence, stating clearly:
“I did not touch that woman. I did not lay my hands on that girl.”
“I did not touch that woman.”
Cardi B spoke to reporters outside of court after being found not liable in civil suit. pic.twitter.com/kkliqL8Xip
— ABC News Live (@ABCNewsLive) September 2, 2025
She also voiced frustration over the disruption to her personal life, including missing her children’s school day due to the trial. The Grammy-winning artist also made it clear that she may take legal action of her own if others attempt to follow Ellis’ example.
Another Win for Cardi in Court
This is not Cardi B’s first courtroom victory. The rapper has shown time and again that she is willing to fight back legally against defamation and false accusations.
