NATCHEZ — Local law enforcement officers arrested a Natchez resident for the second time in a little more than one week for drug-related charges during a large-scale patrolling operation.

Kelvin Johnson, 20, was first arrested on July 15 on Abbot Street, where he fled from officers before 2.5 ounces of marijuana and a loaded pistol were found in his vehicle, said Maj. Shane Daugherty of the Natchez-Adams Metro Narcotics Task Force.

Johnson was released for that chargeCODX-[FDDD;; on a $1,000 recognizance bond. Officers found him on Dum             s Drive with another ounce of marijuana, a loaded pistol and bag gies Saturday night, Daugherty said.

Johnson did not flee from officers Saturday, Daugherty said, and was transported to Adams County Jail on charges of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession and enhanced sale of a controlled substance inside of a school-zone, firearm enhancement and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Natchez Police Chief Walter Armstrong said the arrest was one of five different arrests in the late and early morning hours Saturday and Sunday — three misdemeanors, one fraud felony and one drug-related felony. Additionally, Armstrong said, officers issued approximately 20 different traffic citations.

“Last night was the biggest and most successful operation,” he said, adding he and about 15 other officers patrolled city “hot spots,” areas where crime has been more prevalent in recent months — particularly at or near apartment areas.

“We have increased patrol in those areas where we’ve had increased crime in the past … and we’re doing more community policing and talking with citizens,” he said.

“The stepped-up enforcement that we have now is in response to the increase in violence in the city. … We commend the citizens for their patience and ask that they work with law enforcement for the safety of the city — meaning if they know of any crimes or any suspicious activity, please report it.”

Armstrong said the city and county departments have worked jointly to stop what appears to be gang-related and domestic violence.

“It is not random. … These individuals are going after people that they know and people they have targeted,” he said. “It is very disturbing … we’ve seen a mother and in one case a grandmother opposing loved ones with weapons and violent messages on social media. … We have infants and toddlers that live in those areas. It’s sad that those children have to be subjected to that type of violence.”

Armstrong said civilians who know or are related to those who seem to be in trouble can help local law enforcement to stop violent crimes.

“I encourage people to call Crime Stoppers,” Armstrong said. “It is confidential and it is very beneficial to the community that we live in. … Those who live in those areas and are family members to those persons that are creating havoc in our community can help law enforcement to stop these crimes.”

Armstrong said many officers have sacrificed their personal time to put a stop to area crime.

“We’re going to continue to increase our presence,” Armstrong said. “It is very taxing on our law enforcement officers who give up their time off and it is very taxing on our budget to pay them overtime for their work, but it has done well. … I commend those officers who have given up their personal time for the safety of our community.”

The Miss-Lou Crime Stopper’s number is 601-442-500 or in case of emergency, dial 911.