Cardi B Faces $24 Million Lawsuit from Security Guard
Cardi B’s Testimony in Ongoing Assault Case
Cardi B took the stand on Wednesday to share her side of a legal dispute, revealing that the female security guard suing her is seeking $24 million in damages. The case revolves around an incident that transpired outside an OB-GYN’s office on February 24, 2018, when Cardi was around four months pregnant.
Details of the Confrontation
During her testimony, Cardi, whose real name is Belcalis Almánzar, explained how the altercation began. She claims that Emani Ellis, the plaintiff, recognized her while she exited a fifth-floor elevator and allegedly began recording her with a phone. When Cardi requested that Ellis stop filming, a verbal confrontation ensued. Ellis has countered by accusing Cardi of getting aggressive and causing her injury with a long fingernail.
Claims and Counterclaims
Under cross-examination from Ellis’ attorney, Cardi stated that she noticed Ellis had posted content online following the incident, which she felt was misleading. Cardi argued that Ellis is pursuing monetary compensation unrightfully. "She’s suing me for $24 million," she remarked, revealing the financial claim to the jurors for the first time.
Background on the Lawsuit
Emani Ellis, 32, originally filed the lawsuit in February 2020, alleging that Cardi physically attacked her and misused her celebrity status to have Ellis terminated from her job shortly after the confrontation. However, her attorney recently confirmed the removal of the employment-related claims from the lawsuit.
Humor Amid Tension
When asked whether she felt "disabled" during the incident, Cardi offered a humorous response that lightened the mood in the courtroom. "At that moment, when you’re pregnant, I’m very disabled," she quipped.
Defense Witness Accounts
The testimony included a key defense witness, Tierra Malcolm, who worked as a receptionist at the medical office. Malcolm described intervening during the confrontation, stating that she observed the two women arguing but did not hear any racial slurs from Cardi, contrary to Ellis’ claims. Malcolm also expressed that a few months after the incident, Ellis reached out to her for help with her case, but she declined, unsure if her truth could help Ellis.
Cardi’s Privacy Concerns
Returning to the stand, Cardi expressed her anxiousness about keeping her pregnancy a secret at the time, as she was still adjusting to her sudden fame with hits like "Bodak Yellow (Money Moves)." She shared her concerns about potential public exposure of her medical records, calling it a violation of her privacy.
As the trial progresses, it remains to be seen how the jury will evaluate these testimonies. What are your thoughts on the unfolding events in Cardi B’s ongoing case?
