"makes me feel like maybe I've latched onto something pretty good."
Of course an alternative course of action that would prove more durable over time would be to admit that, in fact, there is no evidence whatsoever other than unsubstantiated proclamation that any such shorting was accomplished.
Didn't ya know; thats how these high profile Penny Stock millionaire touts made their fortunes; Luring sheep to the slaughter on a pump - and dropping the guillotine on the short ...... and of course; they also make small fortunes selling the sheep their courses.