<rant>
Thus, at best, NewsMax believed the caption ("AP Photo)" and failed to perform due diligence in a rush to put the photo and story online. At worst, NewsMax knew it was a fake, and decided to join the ranks of tabloid carnival barkers like The National Enquirer.
Either way, NewsMax has earned a prominent spot on my sh*t list. I expect to distrust leftist "news" organizations. But, when an allegedly conservative one pulls a boner like this, it gives aid and comfort to the leftists.
I also lay the blame directly on the person who created the composite. When you do that, you really need to make it obvious that it's a parody. Otherwise, you might as well be trying to smear conservatives as liars, because that's what it ultimately does.</rant>
Just my two-cents' worth.