Opening statements begin Monday in the murder trial of teenager Ashley Benton.

Prosecutors say Benton stabbed 15-year-old Gabriel Granillo to death during a gang fight in June 2006 at Chew Park in the Montrose area.

Security will be tight at the trial due to the large number of death threats 17-year-old Benton has received in the last 12 months. She will be tried as an adult.

Benton told investigators she stabbed Granillo, a member of the MS-13 gang, in self-defense. The fear is that fellow gang members will show up in court Monday, and not just as witnesses. The hallway in front of the courtroom will be roped off, and those heading inside will be subject to a second screening.

There will also be additional security around the building.

Police said two gangs were involved in the brawl, which included weapons such as tire irons, machetes, golf clubs and baseball bats.