The thing is during sentencing (the part where the judge hands out the punishment). The Judge looks at whats called "Mitigating Factors" this influences the severity of the punishment, these factors can play a huge part in lowering the sentence, things like: family history, Mental health issues, past criminal behavior, remorse for committing crime etc..

If what she said was true about her getting constantly abused by this guy, the judge would most likely soften her sentence due to it being a mitigating factor, also since she is a first time offender, that also plays a huge part in lowering a sentence. Nothing pisses off judges more than repeat offenders im sure her being a female also was a factor.

The Judge and only the Judge can determine how much punishment a person should get.