Cardi B Awarded $24 Million in Los Angeles Assault Lawsuit Victory

Los Angeles, CA – On September 2, 2025, a Los Angeles jury awarded rapper Cardi B $24 million in damages following a successful lawsuit against an individual accused of assaulting her. The high-profile case, which has drawn significant media attention, concluded with a unanimous verdict in favor of the Grammy-winning artist, whose legal name is Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar.

The lawsuit stemmed from an alleged assault incident in 2023, where Cardi B claimed she was physically attacked during an altercation outside a Los Angeles nightclub. The defendant, whose identity has been partially redacted in court documents to protect their privacy, was accused of initiating the violent encounter, causing Cardi B physical harm and emotional distress. The rapper’s legal team presented evidence, including surveillance footage and witness testimonies, that supported her claims of being targeted without provocation.

The $24 million award includes compensatory damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma, as well as punitive damages intended to penalize the defendant for their actions. Cardi B’s attorneys argued that the incident had a profound impact on her mental health and professional life, necessitating extensive therapy and security measures. The jury deliberated for three days before reaching their decision, which legal analysts describe as one of the largest assault-related verdicts in recent California history.

Following the verdict, Cardi B took to social media to express relief and gratitude, stating, “Justice was served. I just want to move forward and focus on my family and my music.” Her legal team emphasized that the case was about holding individuals accountable for violent behavior, regardless of the victim’s celebrity status. The defendant’s attorneys, however, announced plans to appeal, arguing that the damages awarded were excessive and that key evidence was mishandled during the trial.

The case has sparked broader conversations about celebrity safety and the challenges public figures face in maintaining personal security. Cardi B, known for hits like “Bodak Yellow” and “WAP,” has not indicated whether she will pursue further legal action related to the incident. The court has yet to schedule a hearing for the appeal, leaving the final resolution of the case uncertain.