Cardi B Faces Ongoing Civil Assault Trial in Beverly Hills Security Guard Lawsuit

Los Angeles, September 2, 2025 — Rapper Cardi B is in the midst of a high-profile civil trial involving a $24 million lawsuit filed by former security guard Emani Ellis. The case stems from an incident in 2018 in the hallway of a Beverly Hills obstetrician’s office, where Cardi B was approximately four months pregnant and seeking to keep her pregnancy private.

Ellis alleges that Cardi B assaulted her by scratching her face with a long fingernail, striking her head, face, and body, and spitting on her during a confrontation that took place after Ellis allegedly tried to record the rapper on her phone without consent. The security guard claims this encounter led to physical injuries requiring medical treatment and psychological effects including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Ellis also accuses Cardi B of employing racial slurs during the altercation and retaliating to get her fired from her security job.

Cardi B has denied all allegations of physical assault, testifying that Ellis was the aggressor who followed her, recorded her, and verbally provoked a heated exchange. The rapper maintained that the interaction lasted about 60 to 90 seconds, involved no physical contact, and was limited to a verbal spat. Cardi B’s lawyers have highlighted inconsistencies in Ellis’s account, such as changing descriptions of the location of injuries and the lack of immediate medical or photographic evidence. Cardi also pointed to testimony from a doctor’s receptionist and obstetrician who did not witness any injuries on Ellis and who described Ellis as the instigator of the incident.

Recently, a judge issued rulings favorable to Cardi B’s defense, limiting some evidence against her. The court also allowed jurors to ask their own questions during testimony, adding an unusual dynamic to the proceedings. Closing arguments were anticipated to start by early September 2025.

The trial has attracted widespread media attention for its mix of celebrity drama and serious legal questions. Cardi B’s candid courtroom demeanor and her signature style, including her distinctive fingernails, were key elements of her testimony and the case. Both sides have presented sharply contrasting versions of events, and jurors will face the difficult task of determining the truth of allegations that could reshape both parties’ lives.

As of now, the jury has not yet rendered a verdict, and the case remains active with the final decision pending.