While investigating a series of thefts in Forest Grove, an officer made a startling discovery on the alleged suspect's front porch.

It was his flower pot, which happened to have recently gone missing, Forest Grove police say.

Officers also found other flower pots, lawn ornaments, a wicker bench, throw pillows and a ladder at Melinda Lucero's home. None belonged to her, police said.

Lucero, 45, turned herself in Friday to the Forest Grove Police Department. She was cited on suspicion of second- and third-degree theft.

Police said they started getting calls from vexed neighbors on Feb. 23 about missing items.

Lucero agreed to meet with officers and return the stolen property, police said.

-- Everton Bailey Jr.

ebailey@oregonian.com

503-221-8343; @EvertonBailey