Sean Reifel’s time on Love Island USA was short, but the contestant still managed to make a lot of headlines.
To recap, the Islander was hit with backlash ahead of the series when it was revealed he quit his job as a police officer to go on the show. This prompted the local mayor to release a scathing statement.
So, following Sean’s exit from the villa, can he rejoin the Bethlehem Police Department?
The mayor says there’s a catch with the offer
In a new interview with TMZ Live, Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds said Sean could get his job back … but he’ll need to start the hiring process from scratch. That said, the mayor admitted the department has yet to hear anything from Sean since he was dumped from this season.
Previously speaking about Sean’s appearance on the show, the mayor had less than favorable things to say. “For us, who are struggling like every city across the country to attract and retain police officers, there’s an opportunity cost when we invest money in somebody, and then they decide to leave after eight or nine months,” he said, adding that Sean’s decision to go on Love Island will have “consequences that affect other people.”
While some people agreed with the mayor, not everyone was on the same page. Responding to the mayor, Sean’s sister left a comment on an E! News report on Instagram.
“This could have been a great opportunity for the mayor and police department to connect with the community, generate positive publicity for the town, and help improve perceptions of law enforcement,” she said.
“Instead, they chose a response that will likely reinforce the stereotypes they should be working to change.”
Love Island USA is streaming on Peacock.
TELL US – ARE YOU TEAM SEAN OR TEAM MAYOR?
