10 Arrests at Neo-Nazi Rally in Suburban Atlanta

A neo-Nazi rally in Newnan, Ga., that celebrated the birthday of Adolph Hitler concluded without violence or property damage on Saturday evening, but 10 counter-protesters were arrested.

A heavy police presence, with some officers in riot gear, filled the center of Newnan, a town of about 37,000 near metro Atlanta. Hundreds of counter-protesters loudly denounced the approximately two dozen Nazis, who earlier told Newnan officials they expected 50-100 attendees.

The short march and gathering -- in a city park -- was organized by the National Socialist Movement, a Detroit-based hate group believed to be one of the largest in the nation.

National Socialist Movement leader Jeff Schoep gave a "loud, rambling" speech about being "the vanguard of the white race," according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Some of the counter-protesters were arrested for wearing masks, according to reports.

The Republican lieutenant governor, Casey Cagle, tweeted out prayers for Newnan and denounced the hate groups. Governor Nathan Deal, also a Republican, said nothing publicly.