California jury clears Cardi B in $24 million civil assault case

Rapper Cardi B appeared in court on Tuesday (September 2) for closing arguments in a civil case brought by her former security guard, Emani Ellis. The Grammy-winning artist, whose real name is Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar, is accused of assault and discrimination during an incident in 2018.

As Cardi B entered the courthouse, she raised her middle finger in response to a photographer who called out to her for a picture. The gesture drew attention just as proceedings reached their final stage.

Ellis alleges that during an altercation in the hallway of a Beverly Hills obstetrician’s office, Cardi B assaulted her and used multiple racial slurs. She further claims the rapper’s actions led to her dismissal from her job as a security guard.

Cardi B, who was pregnant at the time, has denied the accusations. Testifying in court, she insisted she never touched Ellis, stating that the confrontation began when Ellis started filming her as she exited an elevator. The rapper said this invasion of privacy sparked the exchange but rejected suggestions of physical or verbal assault.

The case has attracted significant media attention given Cardi B’s high profile and comes as she continues to balance her music career with ongoing legal challenges. A verdict is expected following the conclusion of arguments.

On Tuesday, a California jury unanimously cleared Cardi B of the assault allegations, rejecting the $24 million civil lawsuit. The verdict brings an end to the long-running case and formally clears the pop star’s name.

The case has attracted significant media attention given Cardi B’s high profile and comes as she continues to balance her music career with ongoing legal challenges.

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