Cardi B Faces Civil Assault Trial Over 2018 Alleged Attack

The Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B is now in the spotlight for a different reason as her civil assault trial officially kicked off in Los Angeles. The case centers on allegations from a former security guard, Emani Ellis, who claims the rapper physically attacked her back in 2018.

Allegations of a 2018 Altercation

Ellis alleges that during a visit to a Beverly Hills medical office, Cardi B struck her in the head, face, and body. The lawsuit further claims the rapper spat on Ellis and used racial slurs, stemming from an alleged suspicion that Ellis was recording her. The suit also includes accusations that Cardi B’s own security guard assaulted Ellis and that there were attempts to destroy video evidence of the incident.

During her emotional testimony, Ellis told the jury that the encounter left lasting damage and that Cardi B never offered an apology. She stated she suffered facial scars from the rapper’s fingernails, though she admitted she didn’t photograph the injuries at the time due to being too distressed. Ellis began therapy two months after the confrontation, which she found beneficial for her recovery, and emphasized she was not filming Cardi B.

Cardi B’s Defense

Cardi B has vehemently denied these accusations, asserting she never touched Ellis and that Ellis was the aggressor who tried to film her. The rapper acknowledged a brief exchange of words but stated the dispute only escalated when Ellis attempted to record her. She previously addressed the allegations online, questioning why Ellis didn’t press charges if an assault occurred and highlighting her own physical state at the time (four months pregnant and experiencing pain).

Ellis is seeking damages for medical costs, lost wages, emotional distress, and a civil penalty. The trial is ongoing, with Cardi B reportedly telling reporters outside the courtroom that the incident in question never happened.