Cardi B Assault Trial Day 3: Cardi B Returns to the Stand and Doctor Testifies
On the third day of the high-profile civil trial, rapper Cardi B returned to the witness stand, facing intense questioning over allegations of assault made by security guard Ammani Ellis. The plaintiff is reportedly suing Cardi B for $24 million, claiming injuries sustained during a confrontation at a Beverly Hills medical office in February 2018.
Cardi B’s Testimony: Verbal Altercation, No Physical Assault
Cardi B appeared with a new wig and maintained a composed demeanor throughout the day. She acknowledged a verbal altercation with Ellis but firmly denied any physical contact or assault. When asked about the significance of Ellis recording her on the day of the incident, Cardi B emphasized that as a security guard, Ellis’s behavior was inappropriate, especially since Cardi was attending a private medical appointment.
The rapper admitted to using strong language during the confrontation, including telling Ellis to “get the [expletive] off my face” and questioning why she was recording her. However, the court sustained an objection when the plaintiff’s attorney asked Cardi B to repeat those words directly to Ellis.
Cardi B also addressed questions about her pregnancy at the time, explaining that she was “very disabled” due to her condition and could not physically defend herself against Ellis, who she described as “twice my size.” She repeatedly highlighted the size difference between herself and Ellis, noting that Ellis was “security heavy” and physically imposing.
Nail Length and Physical Evidence
The plaintiff’s attorney questioned Cardi B about her fingernails, suggesting they could have been used to scratch or cut Ellis. Cardi B clarified that her nails on the day of the incident were fake, about one inch long, square-shaped with flat rhinestones, and not sharp. She denied ever intending to cause harm.
Plaintiff’s Alleged Behavior and Witness Testimony
Tiara Malcolm, the receptionist at the medical office, testified about the incident, describing a heated verbal confrontation between Cardi B and Ellis. Malcolm intervened by placing herself between the two women and sustained a minor cut on her forehead during the scuffle. She testified that she did not see any injuries on Ellis’s face and that Ellis was the one causing a disturbance by recording Cardi B and following her.
Malcolm also revealed that Ellis contacted her months after the incident, seeking assistance in suing Cardi B. Malcolm declined, believing Ellis was at fault.
Doctor’s Account: Dr. Fininky’s Testimony
Dr. Fininky, Cardi B’s obstetrician-gynecologist, provided his account of the incident. He described hearing yelling from his office, rushing out to find Malcolm between Cardi B and Ellis amid a verbal altercation. He witnessed Ellis strike Malcolm lightly on the shoulder and observed Ellis holding a phone, which she repeatedly moved between her ear and pointing outward, suggesting she was recording.
Dr. Fininky attempted to deescalate the situation and get Ellis to leave the floor. He testified that he was less than a foot away from Ellis during the incident and saw no scratches, cuts, blood, or spit on her face. He also confirmed that Cardi B did not have long, sharp nails that day, noting his habit of observing patients’ nails during exams.
Following the incident, Dr. Fininky reported Ellis’s conduct to building management, leading to her termination. He emphasized his commitment to ensuring all patients, celebrity or not, have a safe and professional experience in his office.
Trial Conclusion and Next Steps
Dr. Fininky testified voluntarily, canceling his afternoon appointments to appear in court and stated he was not compensated for his testimony.
The trial concluded on day three, with the court scheduling jury instructions for the following Tuesday. The jury will then deliberate to reach a verdict.
Public Reaction
The case has sparked widespread discussion, with many questioning the $24 million lawsuit over alleged scratches. Cardi B’s testimony and the supporting accounts from medical staff paint a picture of a verbal dispute without physical assault.
As the trial progresses, all eyes remain on the courtroom to see how the jury will weigh the conflicting testimonies and evidence in this high-profile case.