Los Angeles: In a swift verdict on Tuesday, a California jury found rapper Cardi B not liable in a civil lawsuit filed by former security guard Emani Ellis, who accused the artist of assault and battery during a 2018 confrontation at a Beverly Hills medical office. The verdict comes after less than an hour of deliberation by a 12-member jury in Alhambra, California.

Ellis claimed that Cardi B scratched her face with a long fingernail and spat on her while in a heated verbal dispute. The security guard testified that the incident caused her emotional trauma, left a scar requiring cosmetic surgery, and led to her losing her job. Ellis sought $24 million in damages, claiming compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, lost wages, and punitive damages.

Cardi B, who was four months pregnant during the incident, said she was unaware the pregnancy was public and felt threatened when Ellis followed her into the doctor’s office, filming her. Cardi denied all physical contact, stating under oath that the interaction was verbal only and emphasising, “She couldn’t get a scratch from me because I didn’t touch her.” The rapper admitted to using some profanity but refuted any assault.

Witness testimonies largely supported Cardi’s account. Dr. David Finke, who was scheduled to see Cardi that day, recalled the receptionist intervening to separate the two women, and he did not witness any physical altercation. The receptionist also testified that no assault took place.

After the verdict, Cardi spoke to the media outside the courthouse, declaring her innocence and warning, “The next person who tries to do a frivolous lawsuit against me, I’m going to countersue.” She expressed frustration over missing her children’s first day of school due to the trial and asked fans to stop harassing Ellis on social media.

Ellis’s legal representative declined immediate comment but indicated plans to appeal the decision.

The high-profile trial attracted extensive media coverage, with Cardi B’s courtroom appearances and candid testimony becoming viral moments.

With inputs from AP