Ante-up,

I will answer with an unequivocal, resounding YES that small volume/large percentage trades to the downside are just as manipulative as small volume/large percentage trades to the upside. Both are unethical and illegal in my opinion. My disgust (in addition to deviants that make such trades) lies with the SEC allowing such activity to run rampant in our markets with stocks large and small. They are a complete joke as claimed in this interesting, but revolting article.

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-02-20/sec-surrender-goes-on-with-bear-fund-deal-commentary-by-william-d-cohan.html