Rapper Cardi B Cleared of Assault Charges in $24 Million Civil Lawsuit

Grammy Award-winning rapper Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar Cephus, better known by her stage name Cardi B, has been officially cleared of all assault charges in a highly publicized $24 million lawsuit. The ruling came on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, after a Los Angeles jury decisively sided with the rapper, bringing relief to both her legal team and her fans worldwide.

The lawsuit was initiated by Emani Ellis, a former security guard, who claimed that the incident dated back to 2018. According to Ellis, the altercation took place outside a Beverly Hills obstetrician’s office where she was employed as a building guard. She alleged that Cardi B, who was pregnant at the time, assaulted her by scratching her face with fingernails, spitting on her, and even using racial slurs during the heated confrontation.

Cardi B’s Defense and Testimonies

Cardi B, taking the witness stand last week, categorically denied all the allegations. She explained that the encounter was strictly verbal and had escalated because she was secretly being recorded during a private medical appointment, which violated her personal boundaries.

Her defense was further strengthened by multiple testimonies from key witnesses. Both a clinic receptionist and the attending doctor gave statements before the jury, confirming they had seen no physical assault or any violent action from the rapper.

Jury’s Swift Verdict

The jury’s deliberation lasted less than an hour, reflecting the strength of Cardi B’s defense. In a unanimous decision, they ruled that she was not liable for any of the alleged acts.

Following the verdict, Cardi B expressed her relief and unwavering commitment to standing up against false claims. Speaking to reporters outside the courthouse, she firmly stated:

“Even if I’m on my deathbed, I will say it never happened. I will never admit to something I did not do.”

This ruling brings closure to a case that has followed Cardi B for years and reinforces her public image as an artist unwilling to accept fabricated accusations.