Cardi B can breathe a sigh of relief as her legal troubles related to a 2018 assault accusation have reached a significant conclusion. A judge has officially denied the motion for a new trial filed by her accuser, Emani Ellis, effectively upholding the jury’s September verdict in favor of the rapper.
The Original Lawsuit and Verdict
The case stemmed from an alleged altercation in 2018 at a Beverly Hills gynecologist’s office. Ellis, a security guard at the time, claimed Cardi B, who was four months pregnant, assaulted her. Ellis alleged that the rapper insulted her, spat on her, and caused injuries that required plastic surgery after scratching her cheek. Cardi B, however, maintained that she only verbally argued with Ellis for recording her and presented evidence that her nails at the time were too short to cause such injuries. She also accused Ellis of being the aggressor.
After a trial, the jury deliberated for less than an hour before siding with Cardi B, finding her not liable for the assault claims. This decision was a significant victory for the artist, who has been busy with various achievements throughout 2025.
Denial of the New Trial Motion
Following the verdict, Ellis’ legal team filed a motion for a new trial, citing several claims, including that Cardi B had “intimidated” the jury by throwing a pen at a journalist outside the courthouse. The journalist was reportedly asking about rumors related to Stefon Diggs. Cardi B’s lawyers strongly opposed the motion, labeling it “baseless.”
Judge Ian C. Fusselman ultimately denied the request. In his ruling, the judge stated that even if the alleged pen-throwing incident occurred, it was speculative to believe it could have intimidated the jurors, especially given the nature of Ellis’ claims. He found that “sufficient credible evidence supported the jury’s verdict,” effectively shutting down the push for a retrial.
What’s Next?
With the motion for a new trial denied, the legal matter appears to be concluded in Ellis’ favor. The next step involves Cardi B’s legal team requesting sanctions against Ellis’ attorney, Rosen Janfaza, for alleged trial misconduct. The judge’s ruling on this matter is still pending.
What are your thoughts on the judge’s decision to deny the new trial? Do you think Cardi B’s legal team will be successful in their request for sanctions? Share your opinions in the comments below!