Emani Ellis accused the US rapper Cardi B of slashing her cheek with a jagged 3-inch (7.5cm) fingernail and spitting at her outside an obstetrician's clinic in 2018, amid the rapper's then-unannounced pregnancy. The civil trial held in Alhambra witnessed several viral moments, particularly when Cardi B took the witness stand, offering vivid accounts of the incident interspersed with insightful remarks about her fashion preferences.
Cardi B recounted how the security guard, Ms. Ellis, relentlessly trailed her, filming her on her phone and infringing upon her personal space and privacy. Ms. Ellis, in contrast, claimed the ordeal left her deeply "traumatized."
The jury deliberated for barely an hour before acquitting the Grammy-winning rapper of all allegations, including assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence, and false imprisonment.
Addressing reporters post-verdict, Cardi B stated emphatically, "I slave away all day for my money, for my kids, for those I support. Don't even think about suing me and expecting a quick settlement." She also exhorted her fans to refrain from harassing Ms. Ellis or her family, now that justice had prevailed.
The trial revolved around Cardi B's confidential obstetric appointment when she was four months pregnant with her firstborn. The clinic closed early to safeguard her privacy, given her pregnancy wasn't public knowledge.
Cardi B admitted to the court that a heated, expletive-laden altercation ensued with Ms. Ellis upon her arrival. She described it as intense but firmly denied any physical contact or spitting.
Testifying, Cardi B recounted how Ms. Ellis, serving as a security guard, disclosed her confidential appointment details on the phone upon exiting the elevator. She further alleged that Ms. Ellis filmed her incessantly and refused to step back, leading to a face-to-face verbal spat.
Cardi B confessed to shouting obscenities at Ms. Ellis, instructing her to "back off." Her attorney highlighted her genuine fear for her unborn child, given her pregnancy was still under wraps.
Her defense was strengthened by testimonies from her obstetrician and his receptionist, Tierra Malcolm, who intervened in the fray. Ms. Malcolm asserted that Ms. Ellis was the aggressor, swinging her arms aggressively, aiming to strike Cardi B, which inadvertently injured Ms. Malcolm's head.
Cardi B's daily wig and outfit changes during the trial captivated the public, with her fingernail length becoming a focal point. For her closing arguments, she donned a chic black and white polka dot suit adorned with a red bow, her raven locks neatly tied up.
As this was a civil case, the jury was tasked with determining Cardi B's liability for injuring Ms. Ellis and assessing any potential compensation for pain and suffering. Cardi B testified that she faced a staggering $24 million lawsuit, with Ms. Ellis's attorney arguing that the jury should decide an equitable compensation amount.
Ultimately, the jury exonerated Cardi B of all charges. Outside the Los Angeles County courthouse, a small contingent of fans gathered to lend their support to the rapper. Among them was Christine Orozco, who held a hand-drawn sign reading, "If the nail don't fit, u must acquit," a playful nod to the OJ Simpson trial's glove controversy. Cardi B reportedly chuckled upon reading the sign, remarking, "She had a rounded tip that day, not a sharp one," as she squinted to decipher the message.
