The analysis of a text #4

The following is a review of a Chinese drama.

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Ho Tin-kwong or Morning Sir (Roger Kwok) is a capable policeman, but takes everything too seriously and is hot-tempered. Although already in his 30s, he has never dated and spends whatever free time he has with his mother, who raised him up in a single parent household. Morning Sir’s father, also a policeman, died in infamy 20 years ago, of drug overdose and in the bed of a prostitute. This has left this to be a sensitive spot in both their lives. When his father was still living, they were a close-knit family and this shameful death came as a shock to both mother and son. Neither could comprehend exactly what kind of person was this man they loved–faithful husband and loving father–or scumbag.

I'd like to know why it is "Neither could comprehend exactly what kind of person was this man they loved–faithful husband and loving father–or scumbag," not "Neither could comprehend exactly what kind of person was this man –faithful husband and loving father or scumbag– they loved."
Thank you in advance for your help.