I understand that she acted on the knowledge of some insider information in her stock transaction. But I also understand that with that knowledge she was not able to turn a profit, but rather a loss. So it would seem that her insider knowledge was either erroneous or not at all helpful in activing deviously to turn a quick profit.

The case started as one of insider trading, and I believe the Federal Government were determined come hell or high water to make an example out of Martha.

Yes she lied, shame on her for being silly enough to be caught. There are plenty of others that lie to the Federal Government as Lilith pointed out, perhaps they are just crafty enough to not be caught.

All in all, I'm not sure how I really feel about a five month sentence. I've been more focused on the Feds insisting upon using this case to set an example for the general public. Obviously they wouldn't use Jane Doe, housewife as a person to build a high profile case out of to make an example.