Simmons, Jay-Z Urge Cuomo to Reform Justice System

Hip-hop titans Russell Simmons and Jay-Z are pressing New York's governor for changes to the criminal justice system amid protests over killings by police that didn't produce indictments.

Cuomo met with Jay-Z on Wednesday for what the governor's office described as "a productive conversation'' about reviewing and reforming the system.

Simmons said at a news conference that Cuomo had pledged to order that special prosecutors handle cases alleging police brutality. A Cuomo spokeswoman, though, characterized the men's conversation as discussing special prosecutors among a range of potential options.

Simmons also talked Tuesday with New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Rapper Common joined Simmons and activists Wednesday outside City Hall to demand changes to policing and prosecution.

Cuomo and de Blasio aides say both are committed to working on reforms.