Janice Was Convicted of Aggravated Robbery

Multiple Choice

Janice was convicted of aggravated robbery. Typically in this jurisdiction those convicted of this crime receive between 4 and 7 years in prison. During her sentencing, the judge noted that she would be reducing the sentence for Janice to 1 year and a day because she was a woman. Is this permissible?

A) Yes, women should be treated more leniently by the criminal justice system due to their docile nature.
B) Yes, women are impacted by punishment more harshly than men so their sentences need not be harsh.
C) No, sentences should be based on a defendant's act rather than identity.
D) No, unless she has children to take care of at home.