Cuomo Says He Will Offer Justice Reform Package
ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo says a genuine problem exists with the perception among minorities that the criminal justice system isn't fair and he'll propose reforms next year.
Regardless of whether there are dual standards in American justice, Cuomo says the perception issue predates the case of Eric Garner, whose videotaped death while being arrested by police in Staten Island led to widespread protests.
Cuomo said Thursday he's been talking to police, prosecutors and community activists, and he believes reforms are possible.
He said changes should have come years ago, but that people need to seize the moment now that there is a focus on the issue.
One possibility is a special prosecutor for cases against police, which he calls a complex issue.
Earlier this week, state Attorney General Eric Schneiderman asked the governor to authorize his office to investigate deaths at the hands of police.
"The case law in New York is such that even a district attorney who wanted to avoid the appearance of impropriety cannot do it," he said. "The only thing that can happen now is that the governor can, in any case, appoint me and my office.
"It is time to acknowledge that the public has lost confidence in this part of our criminal justice system," Schneiderman said to reporters, including 1010 WINS' Al Jones.
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