A violent clash could be imminent. That has been the word as two White Lives Matter rallies come to Middle Tennessee next week.
Now in an exclusive interview, top prosecutor, District Attorney Jennings Jones, has been the first to speak out, saying he has hopes for peace, but he added there's potential for trouble.
The so-called White Lives Matter rallies have been set for Shelbyville and Murfreesboro one week from Saturday.
With the planned rallies will come counter-protesters, as well.
Many may ask if we're looking at a potential Charlottesville-type clash.
"In my mind I don't think that is going to happen, but you have to be prepared," Jones said.
He said Murfreesboro will not take any chances. Ever since the white supremacists group League of the South submitted a permit application for a Heritage Assembly from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the town square, the city and county have been preparing.
"The sheriff and police have reached out to the other agencies in the jurisdiction," said Jones.
That's police from Metro, Smyrna, and La Verge, as well as the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and even the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
General Jones said even if a permit has not been issued by the city, the protesters can still gather.
"It's their right to assemble, and we can't stop them from doing so," Jones said.
Given his way, General Jones would love to see no one show up for this event, though he has known many will.
"My advice would be to avoid the downtown area for that afternoon," Jones said, giving advice to local residents.
Obviously, big time preparation has been in play to make sure things remain peaceful, and who knows, maybe turnout will be far less than expected.
But many area hotels have reported bookings from around the country from people coming for the rallies and protests.
General Jones said he hopes everyone behaves.
He added any act of vandalism or violence will immediately lead to arrests and prosecution.
