Cardi B was back in court Tuesday, this time facing a civil lawsuit tied to a 2018 encounter that continues to follow her years later.
The complaint, filed by security guard Emani Ellis, accuses the rapper of assaulting her outside a Beverly Hills medical office while Cardi was pregnant with her first child. Ellis alleges that Cardi spit on her, used racial language, and scratched her face, leaving a visible mark.
Ellis Testifies: “It Was Frightening”
On the witness stand, Ellis recounted what she described as a scary confrontation. She told jurors that after spotting the Grammy-winning star, she exclaimed: “That’s Cardi B.”
“She touched my nose but scratched my cheek,” Ellis testified, claiming the injury left her shaken and humiliated.
Ellis says the incident was both physically and emotionally damaging, prompting her to pursue monetary damages.
Cardi B Pushes Back: “Nobody Touched Her”
Cardi B—whose legal name is Belcalis Almanzar—denied the accusations outside the courthouse, telling reporters:
“Nobody touched Ellis. It was just words.”
Her defense team argued that Ellis provoked the situation by attempting to film the rapper as she walked into the office, despite Cardi being visibly pregnant at the time.
Legal analyst Brian Buckmire broke down the defense’s stance:
“According to Cardi’s defense, there was no physical altercation—only a 60- to 90-second verbal exchange with no violence.”
Defense Challenges Ellis’ Credibility
During cross-examination, Cardi’s attorneys questioned Ellis’ account, pointing to inconsistencies in her earlier reports.
- Was Ellis holding her phone close to her face or not?
- Was she touched on the nose, scratched on the cheek—or both?
The defense argued these contradictions weaken her credibility and cast doubt on her version of events.
What’s at Stake
Ellis’ lawsuit names several claims, including:
- Assault & Battery
- Negligence
- Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
- False Imprisonment
She is seeking monetary damages as the trial progresses.
Cardi B’s Legal Battles Continue
This isn’t the first time Cardi has faced courtrooms—her 2018 strip club brawl case ended with community service, and she has openly acknowledged the challenges of living life under constant public scrutiny.
This new trial puts her in the spotlight again, forcing the superstar to balance her music career, family, and ongoing legal issues.
Key Takeaways:
- Cardi B is being sued by security guard Emani Ellis over a 2018 altercation.
- Ellis alleges Cardi spit on her, used racial language, and scratched her face.
- Cardi denies all claims, saying the incident was verbal only.
- The lawsuit seeks damages for multiple claims including assault and negligence.
- The civil trial is ongoing in Los Angeles.
