The sentencing of women shoplifters was characterized by an avoidance of the fine. As a result, many women received a discharge but others received community penalties. Women shoplifters were less likely than comparable men to receive a prison sentence. Men and women stood an equal chance of going to prison for a first violent offense. Among repeat offenders, however, women were less likely to receive a custodial sentence. Women first offenders were significantly less likely than equivalent men to receive a prison sentence for a drug offense, but recidivists were equally likely to go to prison. Among first and repeat offenders, women convicted of violent and drug offenses were always more likely to be discharged and men were more likely to be fined. Overall, results showed sentencers exhibited a general reluctance to fine women. 3 references and 2 tables