Grammy-winning rapper Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar Cephus, popularly known as Cardi B, has been cleared of all assault allegations in a $24 million civil lawsuit after a Los Angeles jury delivered a unanimous verdict on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.

The lawsuit, filed by former security guard Emani Ellis, alleged that Cardi B assaulted her in 2018 outside a Beverly Hills obstetrician’s office. Ellis claimed the rapper, who was pregnant at the time, scratched her face, spat on her, and hurled racial slurs during the altercation.

Taking the stand last week, Cardi B denied the allegations, maintaining that the confrontation was strictly verbal and triggered by her frustration at being filmed without consent during a private medical visit.

Her defense was bolstered by testimonies from a clinic receptionist and a doctor, both of whom stated they witnessed no physical assault. After deliberating for less than an hour, the jury ruled decisively in Cardi B’s favor.

Outside the courthouse, the rapper expressed relief, declaring:

“Even if I’m on my deathbed, I will say it never happened. I will never admit to something I did not do.”

Opinion: Beyond the Verdict — A Lesson on Fame, Privacy, and Reputation

This ruling is not just a personal victory for Cardi B but also a cautionary tale about the complex dynamics of celebrity life. For stars like Cardi, every public moment — even one as private as a medical appointment — is vulnerable to intrusion, speculation, and, sometimes, exaggerated claims.

While Ellis’s allegations were serious, the speed and unanimity of the jury’s decision suggest the evidence strongly favored the rapper’s account. It also underscores how damaging false claims can be to a celebrity’s career and personal life, especially in an era where social media amplifies narratives — true or false — in seconds.

At the same time, the case highlights a broader issue: the fragile line between protecting privacy and public accountability. Celebrities often find themselves fighting battles not just in the courts but also in the court of public opinion.

For Cardi B, this acquittal may restore some peace of mind, but it also reinforces her earlier message — that not every accusation should be taken at face value. In an industry where reputation can be as valuable as talent, standing firm in the truth is often the greatest defense.