A judge has imposed a $1,500 fine on the trial lawyer in the civil lawsuit filed against Cardi B after determining that a barred question was intentionally raised during testimony.
Court Ruling and Prohibited Question
The sanction relates to questioning during testimony on 26 August 2025. Judge Ian C. Fusselman had barred references to alleged past conduct, including suggestions of gang affiliation. Despite the restriction, attorney Ron A. Rosen Janfaza asked Cardi B whether she had any gang affiliation.
Judge Rejects Defence Arguments
In a six-page written ruling, the judge concluded the question “was no accident”, describing the conduct as knowing and intentional. Claims of exhaustion, delegation, or wording strategy were dismissed.
Background of the Civil Lawsuit
The sanction followed Cardi B’s legal victory in a lawsuit filed by former security guard Emani Ellis, who alleged assault and racist abuse during a 2018 incident. Jurors found no merit in the claims and dismissed the $24 million damages request after brief deliberations.
Further Court Orders
Evidence focused on a hallway encounter following an accusation of unauthorised filming. Cardi B denied physical contact, supported by testimony from medical staff. The court ordered the sanctioned lawyer to self-report to the California State Bar within 30 days.
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