Pubdate: Sun, 28 Mar 1999 Source: United Press International Copyright: 1999 United Press International 8TH GRADERS FACE LEWDNESS, DRUG CHARGES (BELMAR, N.J.) - Residents in Belmar, New Jersey, are shocked with the Monmouth County prosecutor's decision to charge a group of eighth graders with drug possession, lewdness, simple assault and improper touching. Investigators say the group of boys returning from a dance in Manasquan exposed themselves, and tried to smoke marijuana during the ride on the school bus. Members of the same group were later accused of touching fellow students on the backsides in the school playground during recess. The students have not been identified because of their age. School officials say the boys have already been suspended from school, but would not comment further on the allegations. - --- MAP posted-by: Derek Rea