Cardi B Prevails in Civil Suit Alleging Assault During Pregnancy
LOS ANGELES (november 21, 2023) – Rapper Cardi B has won a civil lawsuit brought by a former security guard who alleged assault and emotional distress during a February 2018 incident in Los angeles. A jury found in favor of Cardi B after a week-long trial centered around a dispute at an obstetricianS office where the rapper was receiving prenatal care.
The lawsuit,filed by Jane Ellis,claimed Cardi B intentionally caused her emotional distress and physical harm,resulting in a facial scar requiring cosmetic surgery,lost wages,and trauma.Ellis sought unspecified damages, but Cardi B testified Ellis claimed she was suing for $24 million. The incident occurred while Cardi B was four months pregnant wiht her first child with rapper Offset and had kept her pregnancy private from the public and her parents.
During the trial, Ellis testified that Cardi B followed her to a fifth-floor appointment and began filming her, leading to a heated argument. Cardi B countered that Ellis was the aggressor, backing her into a corner.A receptionist who witnessed the altercation largely corroborated Cardi B’s account.
In closing arguments, Cardi B’s attorney, peter Aza, emphasized the impact the incident had on Ellis’s future career aspirations in law enforcement, stating she “lost her future” along with her job.Aza also pointed to Cardi B’s use of profanity during her testimony as indicative of a disregard for the court proceedings.
The jury ultimately sided with Cardi B,finding in her favor on all counts. The verdict concludes a legal battle that drew significant public attention, highlighting the complexities of privacy, security, and public persona.
