Grammy-winning rapper Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar Cephus, better known as Cardi B, has been cleared of all assault allegations in a $24 million civil lawsuit, following a decisive ruling by a Los Angeles jury on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
The case was filed by former security guard, Emani Ellis, who alleged that the rapper attacked her outside a Beverly Hills obstetrician’s office in 2018. Ellis, who worked at the building as a guard, claimed that Cardi B — who was pregnant at the time — scratched her face with her fingernails, spat on her, and used racial slurs.
Taking the stand last week, Cardi B firmly rejected the allegations, insisting the incident never turned physical. She told the jury that her frustration stemmed from being filmed without consent during a private medical appointment.
Her defense was further strengthened by testimonies from a clinic receptionist and a doctor, both of whom told the jury they witnessed no assault.
After less than an hour of deliberation, the jury unanimously ruled in Cardi B’s favor, absolving her of any liability in the case.
Outside the courthouse, the rapper expressed relief and maintained her innocence.
“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.
