CARDI B CLEARED BY JURY IN $24 MILLION ASSAULT LAWSUIT

A Los Angeles jury has cleared Cardi B of assault after a security guard sought $24 million (£18 million) in damages over an alleged 2018 incident. Emani Ellis had accused the Grammy-winning rapper of scratching her cheek with a three-inch fingernail and spitting on her outside an obstetrician’s office, where Cardi B—then four months pregnant—was attending an appointment that had not yet been made public.

During the civil trial in Alhambra, which produced several viral moments, Cardi B testified that Ellis followed her, filmed her on her phone, and refused to give her space. Ellis claimed the confrontation left her “traumatised,” but jurors took only about an hour to reject the claims of assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence, and false imprisonment.

After the verdict, Cardi B told reporters: “I work all day and I work hard for my money, for my kids, for the people that I take care of. So don’t you ever think that you’re going to sue me, and I’m just going to settle. “She also urged her fans not to harass Ellis or her family. The case centred on Cardi B’s visit to her obstetrician.

Witnesses, including the doctor and his receptionist, testified that Ellis was the aggressor, with the receptionist even sustaining a cut while trying to separate the two women. Cardi B admitted to a heated shouting match, including swearing at Ellis, but denied making physical contact or spitting.

The rapper’s changing wigs, outfits, and especially her fingernails became frequent talking points throughout the trial. On the final day, she wore a polka dot suit with a red bow. Ellis’s attorney asked the jury to decide on compensation, but Cardi B’s legal team argued Ellis was motivated by money. Ultimately, the jury found the rapper bore no liability.