Mitchell Co. is experiencing a decrease in sales and operating income for the fiscal year ending December 31, 20Y1. Gene Lumpkin, the controller of Mitchell Co., has suggested that all orders received before the end of the fiscal year be shipped by midnight, December 31, 20Y1, even if the shipping department must work overtime. Since Mitchell Co. ships all merchandise FOB shipping point (free on board) and uses accrual accounting, it would record all such shipments as sales for the year ending December 31, 20Y1, thereby offsetting some of the decreases in sales and operating income.

Do you feel that the controller is behaving in a legal, professional, and ethical manner? Why? Discuss and support your points. (Don't copy and paste others' answers.)